ICT
Information and Communication Technology looks at how computers can process and present
information as well as how they are used as a medium to communicate.
The units are complementary and are concerned with applying ICT to solve problems and the study
of the opportunities for and affects of using ICT in the world today. Candidates will have the
opportunity to put into practice a wide range of software and hardware to create solutions to solve
problems.
Students will study the concepts associated with the use of ICT in the 21st century. They will also
have opportunities for acquiring skills needed in the IT profession such as co-operative working
and project management. These practical skills can be developed in areas of ICT that are of interest
to them. Students can also use these newly acquired skills as a springboard into other
qualifications and working environments.
AS Specification AQA GCE Information and Communication Technology (2520)
The AS examinations are comprised of two written papers, of 1 hour 30 minutes each and count
towards 25% of the A-level. The AS exams will have, short answer questions and structured
questions.
Unit 1: Practical Problem Solving in the Digital World:
Students are provided with the opportunity to use ICT to solve a task or problem, and this is
generally done using a spreadsheet. In this unit we also look at: Data entry, storage, output of
information, use of software, current health and safety legislation.
Unit 2: Living in the Digital World:
The topics of study include: ICT systems, their components, uses, users, safety and security, Data
and information, data transfer, backup and recovery.
A2 Specification AQA GCE Information and Communication Technology (2520)
In the A2 year there is one, 2 hour synoptic written paper and one practical coursework unit, which
are weighted 30% and 20% respectively. The A2 paper will have questions that require extended
prose answers. The coursework will be an in depth extended project stretching from September
until May.
Unit 3: The Use of ICT in the Digital World:
This is a synoptic unit and covers all of the AS topics as well as more advanced topics which are
covered in more depth in the A2 course. Selected topics of study include: Developments in
technology, information needs of organisations, ICT systems, management of ICT, Developing ICT
systems, introducing large ICT systems into organisations, Training and supporting users of ICT
systems. Students have the opportunity to apply the knowledge they have learned in looking at a
case study.
Unit 4: Coursework: Practical Issues Involved in the Use of ICT in the Digital World
The final unit is coursework based and normally this focuses on a database system. Students are
required to produce a system that is of a substantially complex nature. Approximately one third of
the unit revolves around making the system, while the remainder of the unit deals with
documenting the system. The measure of success is whether the system produced is of a
professional standard and worthy of being sold.
Reading List
Author(s)
Diane Spencer
Stuart McNee
Claire Rees (series editor)
Title
AQA Information and Communication
Technology AS (Student Book)
ISBN 9780748799077
Author(s)
Diane Spencer
Paul Morgan
Bill Haddock
Claire Rees (series editor)
Title
AQA Information and Communication
Technology A2 (Student Book)
ISBN 9780748799084