Cambridge National in IT – Information Technologies
Member of Staff Responsible: Mr C. Smethurst
Examinations: Exam board – OCR
Two practical coursework assignments (60%)
One written examination (40%)
Graded – Distinction* to Pass at Level 1 or 2, (equivalent to GCSE grades 9-1)
Course Outline
Whereas Computer Science focuses more on the technical details of how computers function and iMedia focuses on the creative capabilities of technology, the OCR Cambridge National in IT looks more at the way computers are used in everyday life and the world of business. This course is perfect for those who want to develop a deeper level of understanding of how computers can be used in a range of real-life situations. It is aimed at those preparing for careers where computers may play a big part in their job and therefore want a background in everyday computer systems and their uses, rather than those who are planning on heading down a technical route into a specific computer-based career such as a computer programmer or technician.
The course focuses on areas such as:
1. Planning and designing IT solutions and products for a given purpose
2. Using different applications and tools to design, create and evaluate IT solutions and product
3. Finding imaginative ways to solve IT problems
4. Creating an Augmented Reality (AR) Prototype
5. Using Spreadsheets to create a data manipulation solution
6. Current and emerging technologies and the impact that advances in technology may have on themselves and others
7. Understanding data handling systems such as databases and spreadsheets and how these can be used in a variety of work-based situations
8. Understanding and implementing Human Computer Interface Principles into real world scenarios
9. Analysing problems and identifying the steps needed to design, develop, test and evaluate appropriate solutions
10. Project planning and management tools and techniques.
11. Understanding how Augmented Reality can be used by organisations.
Students will sit one written examination paper which includes a combination of short answer and essay style questions. Practical ability is assessed through project-based tasks culminating in two completed projects for a given organisation. The amount of material covered by this course and the amount of practical work involved means that students must be committed to the subject from the beginning, good at meeting deadlines and have a keen interest in the use of computers.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This course will interest any pupil looking for a career in almost any sector - good computer skills are important for a range of modern jobs. It can also lead to computer-specific careers in the ICT industry. This course is equivalent to one GCSE.
