Information and Communication Technology
Third Form Third Form candidates are given a good grounding in all of the common software packages to provide them with IT skills to support them in their academic studies. In addition classes are taught the importance of effective file handling and Internet safety. In the final term candidates are introduced to web design and game making through a series of mini projects.
Fourth Form
In the Fourth Form, Stoics have the opportunity to study for the ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) qualification. ECDL improves learners’ understanding of computers and promotes efficient use of software. The qualification is widely recognised across the world by employers and Educational establishments alike, as proof of ability and competence when working with IT.
The seven ECDL Units studied are as follows:
• Security for IT Users
• IT User Fundamentals
• Using email and the Internet
• Word Processing
• Spreadsheet software
• Database software
• Presentation software
The School uses an on-line testing system, and Stoics have to gain a 75% mark to gain a pass in each unit.
Fifth Form
In the Fifth Form, Stoics have the opportunity to study for the ECDL Extra qualification. The qualification builds on their Fourth Form studies, and is equivalent to a full GCSE at Grades A-C. The candidate receives a Full Level 2 ITQ certificate. Stoics work on the advanced features of the word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software. In addition, the Improving Productivity Using IT module ensures candidates learn the most effective and efficient ways to use the software. The unit allows the candidate to demonstrate the practical application of the skills they have learnt in the application units. In the test for this unit Learners are expected to make choices about applications and tools independently.
Each unit is examined through the on-line testing system within Stowe School. Each unit requires a pass mark of 75% to receive the award.
In summary, the candidate must gain a pass in the following units to gain the qualification:
• Word Processing software
• Spreadsheet software
• Presentation software
• Improving Productivity Using IT
Further information regarding these qualifications can be found at www.bcs.org.
Sixth Form
A Level ICT
Stowe offers A Level ICT in the Sixth Form. A varied programme of practical and theoretical work. The terms are interspersed with visits and speakers when available. This year the candidates will be visiting the new Olympic stadium for a study day and tour of the venue.
The new WJEC Board teaching specification is designed to encourage candidates to:
• Manage ICT projects
• Develop personal learning and thinking skills
• Provide quality ICT-based solutions to a range of set problems
• Develop an awareness of new developments in Information Technology
Structure of the Course
The course is split into four modules with two being studied at both AS and A2. 60% of the overall marks are awarded for exam performance in modules IT1 and IT3 and 40% for the 2 coursework modules IT2 and IT4.
AS Level Modules
IT1 - Information Systems
This section is about acquiring knowledge and understanding of information systems, which is assessed by means of a two and a quarter hours' written examination. The exam board will supply a specific topic for which you will prepare a spreadsheet solution. Hard copies of your spreadsheet work (which candidates will have worked on throughout term time), are taken into the examination, and used to answer questions in the second section of the January exam. This module also acts as a foundation for Unit IT4, Use and Impact of ICT, for those candidates going on to A Level.
IT2 - Presenting Information
The AS coursework module. Following the exam in January the candidate will be involved in practical work to complete the following tasks by the Spring:
1. A two page DTP document using advanced features of the software package
2. Design and production of automated documents using such features as macros and design templates.
3. Design and production of a presentation/website comprising of at least six slides/pages to include effective styles, sound, animation and original video (where appropriate).
These tasks will provide the candidate with opportunities to make full use of the School's presentation software, including PowerPoint, Dreamweaver, Publisher, Flash and Photoshop.
A2 Level Modules
IT3 - The Use and Impact of ICT
This section is about the use and impact of Information and Communication Technology in the World of Business. It comprises of a written paper of two sections, A and B, presented as a question paper requiring a separate answer booklet. Candidates answer all questions in Section A and one from two in Section B. Quality of Written Communication is assessed in two questions.
IT4 - This is the A2 Coursework Module
Candidates analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate a solution to a problem of their choice requiring the use of a relational database. This is a substantial piece of work, undertaken over an extended period of time. It is internally assessed and moderated by the exam board.