IT (BTEC Level 3)
Why Study IT?
The use of Information Technology (IT) is now a way of life for everyone. The majority of jobs involve this use of IT either directly or indirectly. By taking this course it will give you a broad idea of how IT is used in different ways within the workplace or elsewhere; the importance of communicating correctly; or how information is stored or sent from one place to another. You will experience using up-to-date hardware and software including making animations, websites and producing computer
programs.
Entry Requirements
In addition to our general entry requirements, you must have:
- GCSE English – grade 3
- GCSE Maths – grade 3
We would expect all students to show considerable enthusiasm for IT.
The Course
The course is totally assessed from coursework with a commitment from students to attend all classes, work at all class activities and to meet all deadlines. Provided your first year is successful, you are expected to continue this course into the second year.
Course Activities
Students learn through a variety of activities including investigating software applications, practical work, case studies, discussions, note-taking, reading and individual research. Coursework will be presented by text, number and evidence from several applications. The course is also designed to help you improve general skills such as communication, working with
other people and self-management.
Career Progression and Opportunities
IT and e-commerce are rapidly developing areas and there will be many employment opportunities for people with these qualifications. It is a good qualification to have in order to use with many other subjects.
The qualification can also lead to Higher Education, either a foundation course in a related field or a suitable degree course. Most of our students studying ICT vocational courses in recent years have either gone on to university to study a variety of subjects or have taken up apprenticeship in a relevant field.
Course Structure and Assessment
This course is the equivalent of two A Levels. You will complete 12 units over two years. All assessment is through portfolio assignments.
Year 1:
Communication and Employability Skills for IT: This unit looks at communication in business and the skills that are required to do this effectively. You will investigate the type of skills required to work in the IT environment.
Computer Systems: This practical ‘hands-on’ unit looks at setting up, using, customising and maintaining a computer system. To do so effectively you will need to understand the components that make up a system.
Spreadsheet Modelling: You will learn how to design and build an effective spreadsheet using a range of Excel features and investigate how spreadsheets are used in business.
Digital Graphics: The ways in which you manipulate graphics for use on the internet or in everyday situations. You will research various features of graphic software and digital devices to produce images of different types.
Communication Technologies: How does communication take place in the modern world? Investigate how mobile technology and computer networks communicate and work.
Website Production: This unit considers the whole process of website development from identification of need, design, build, upload, test, maintain and review. You will learn how to identify when and where to use the skills you will acquire for website design and production.
Year 2:
Database Design: How to design and build databases consisting of several linked tables using Access. You will then progress to building forms, queries and reports, and learn about programming Access.
E-Commerce: E-commerce uses the internet to build and enhance relationships with customers, partners and other businesses; processing orders electronically; handling customer service and cooperating with business partners. This unit also looks at the benefits and drawbacks for society of e-commerce and investigates the technologies involved.
Event Driven Programming: You will learn about the nature and features of programming languages, and how to write simple programs.
Computer Animation: You will learn how to create animation using a variety of software such as Fireworks and Flash.
Two other units, which may be the following: Information Systems / Client Side Customisation of Web Page
Additional Information
Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel