Course Details
ICT BTEC Subsidiary Diploma
Students have told us that they want an ICT course that develops their awareness of the way computers are used in the work place, extends their skills in using software and increases their understanding of computer systems. They have also told us that they like doing assignments and don’t want to take exams. This course meets all those requirements and encourages students to become discerning users of ICT who can share their enthusiasm.
Are there any special requirements?
It would be helpful if you have an ICT qualification but it is not a requirement.
What/how will I be studying?
- During the two years, you will use a variety of application packages, including databases, spreadsheets, word processors, presentation software and web page creators.
- By investigating a variety of applications you will become familiar with software and hardware and appreciate the impact that computers have on our lives.
- Students will share their knowledge in discussions and tackle exercises appropriate to their needs.
- The majority of the lessons are spent on a computer developing skills and putting theory into practice. Students will use the Internet and work through computer based exercises. Theory is introduced through discussion and note taking and backed up with written exercises.
Year 1 BTEC Certificate {equivalent to one AS}
Unit 1: Generic software and developing communication and presentation skills
- Organisational skills and to be able to work as a team
- Presenting information clearly whether in a formal letter or in an email
- Explaining technical jargon
- Creating posters, presentations, web pages, blogs
Unit 2: The components of a computer system
- The components inside a computer and the connected peripherals
- The operating system and the software that protects your computer
- Setting up and ensuring that you get the best from your system
Unit 3: Digital graphics
- Digital cameras, scanners, mobile phones
- Exploring the formats used to represent images
- Creating, editing and manipulating images
Year 2 BTEC Subsidiary Diploma {equivalent to one A level}
Unit 4: Making a website
- Web architecture and components
- Factors that influence website performance
- Designing a website
- Creating a website
Unit 5: Creating a spreadsheet
- How spreadsheets are used to solve business problems
- Developing a solution to a complex problem using a spreadsheet
- Producing graphs
- Testing and documenting
Unit 6: Creating a database
- Understanding relational databases
- Designing, creating and populating a relational database
- Testing a relational database
How is the Course assessed?
Assessment will combine written assignments and practical projects that will be based on realistic workplace situations. It could include doing a presentation, producing a video and creating solutions to problems using software packages.
What skills will I need and be developing during this course?
- The subject calls for both logical discipline and imaginative creativity
- You will develop your key skills of Communication, Information Technology and Problem Solving.
- You will add to your ability to use databases, spreadsheets, word processors, presentation software and web page creators.
What career opportunities are there?
In today's world, where ICT is constantly changing, there is an increasing need for technological and information literacy skills. The impact of ICT on society is enormous and as more and more businesses and households connect to the Internet, there is a growing need for individuals who can master and manipulate these new technologies.
A qualification in ICT combines well with many subjects, including those that would benefit from an ability to obtain, manipulate, present and communicate information. It also goes well with subjects that contain analytical, scientific and technological aspects.
Along with other qualifications a student could go on to take a degree in IT. Students considering a degree in Computing would normally take Computing in preference to ICT.
Download Course Description File: ICT_BTEC.pdf