GCSE ICT

Introduction to GCSE ICT A (Full & Short Course)
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations


Why study Information and Communication Technology?
The world is becoming increasingly dominated by the use of ICT systems, which influence every aspect of our everyday lives. The study of ICT will help provide you with the analytical, communication and technical skills that you will need as an active participant in this exciting and dynamic world. The course will also provide you with an essential foundation for any further courses including those specific to the use of computers and new technology such as Alevel, AS, vocational and occupational courses.
You will study:

  • How ICT is used for work and leisure;
  • The positive and negative effects of ICT on society;
  • How to design and use ICT systems;
  • Hardware, software and communication networks.

You will learn:

How to use software such as word processors, databases, spreadsheets etc;

  • About practical design of ICT systems;
  • Key skills in numeracy, communication and ICT;
  • How to apply ICT to real life situations and solve problems;
  • How to use ICT to research, acquire, manipulate and present information.

Assessment

This course consists of four modules. The first two modules make up a short course in ICT. By extending these to take the other two modules, you can achieve a full course GCSE. Modules 2 and 4 are based on coursework while modules 1 and 3 are written examinations. There are two levels of entry for the examination papers: Foundation and Higher.


Module 1

This is assessed by a short written examination. The questions are based on a basic knowledge and understanding of computer systems, communications
technology and information.

Module 2 - Coursework

You will produce two minor coursework projects. The first project is about presenting information and the second is chosen from handling data, modelling, measuring or control.

Module 3

The third module is assessed by a short written examination. The questions are based on ICT applications, systems, networks and computer technology.

Module 4 - Coursework

The final module is a major coursework project where you should produce your own fully documented ICT system to tackle a real problem of your choice.