Information Technology - Single

“IT has increased my confidence around technology and given me invaluable skills for the workplace."

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at grade 4 including English Language and/or Maths

Subject Intent

The Applied General in IT allows students to study the fundamental knowledge of Information Technology covering the role and implications of using Information Technology systems and cyber-security threats and how to manage attacks.

Students will also develop important skills for creating websites to meet a specific purpose and to manage data through the development of a relational database solution. The objective of this qualification is to enable learners to develop their analytical, problem-solving and evaluative skill sets. This course provides a route to advance to further study and a wide range of employment sectors.

Course Introduction

The qualification has been developed in consultation with higher education representatives and sector experts to ensure students have the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to progress to, and thrive, in higher education.

The qualification has four mandatory units covering the following topics:

• Information Technology Systems – Information technology systems, including the relationship between software and hardware, and the issues related to IT systems.
• Cyber Security and Incident Management – Types of cyber security attacks, the vulnerabilities in networked systems and how to plan and respond to attacks.
• Website Development – The development tools, techniques and processes used in website development and how to test usability, functionality and fitness for purpose.
• Relational Database Development – Structure of data, data design and database management systems (DBMS).

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.

Theory is introduced through discussion and note taking and backed up with written exercises.

Information Technology is a highly relevant subject in an increasingly technological world. This course goes well with subjects that contain analytical, scientific and technological aspects such as Maths or Computing and also fits well with vocational subjects such as Business Studies.

Course Modules

Unit 1: Information Technology Systems (external exam)

You will explore the relationships between the hardware and software that form an IT system, how systems work individually and together, and the relationship between the user and the system. You will examine issues related to the use of IT systems and the impact that they have on organisations and individuals.

Unit 2: Cyber Security and Incident Management (external exam)

You will examine the many types of cyber security attacks, the vulnerabilities in networked systems, and the techniques that can be used to defend an organisation’s networked systems. You will examine scenarios and explain appropriate protection measures for networked systems. You will also look at the forensic methods used to investigate cyber security incidents and analyse the suitability of those methods for a given scenario.

Unit 3: Website Development

You will explore how existing websites use the principles of website development to appeal to their intended audience and meet their specific purpose. You will plan, design and develop a website in response to a client brief by applying website development tools, techniques and processes. You will also reflect on the usability, functionality and fitness for purpose of the website using a testing and review process.

Unit 4: Relational Database Development

In this unit, you will examine the structure of data and how an efficient data design follows through into an effective, useful database. You will investigate database management systems (DBMS) and apply practical skills in designing and developing a database within a given DBMS.

Assessments

Unit 1 and unit 2 are assessed by external exams. Unit 3 and unit 4 are internally assessed.

Course Fact

As IT systems evolve, there is an increasing need for IT professionals to protect networked systems and the information they contain, while providing enhanced features and benefits for organisations, customers and individuals.

Example Career Opportunities

IT Service Engineer | Network Manager | Software Engineer | IT Support Technician | IT Trainer
Operational Researcher | Data Analyst | Social Media Specialist