ICT (OCR)

A2 Course Outline

What is A2 ICT?

ICT A2 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) continues the development of the practical skills learnt at AS level, as well further enhancing students’ knowledge of the impact of ICT on our everyday lives. With an emphasis on the use of ICT within the corporate world, students will learn about the introduction of new systems into existing legacies, as well as the workings of ICT networks to optimise capital gain. ICT will help students carry out complicated practical investigations using a wide range of software and hardware, building on existing skills.

There is a very large coursework element in A2 ICT. Students will be required to design an entire system in order to solve a pre-existing problem for a potential client. Once designed, students will be required to test and install their systems before critically evaluating their own work in the form of a project report.

What Skills Will Students Develop When Studying ICT?

  • ICT students will develop a broad range of ICT skills, knowledge and understanding.
  • ICT encourages students to think creatively, analytically, logically, and critically, while applying skills, knowledge and understanding of ICT to a range of contexts to solve problems.
  • ICT students will understand the consequences of using ICT for individuals, organisations and society, and become aware of emerging technologies and the impact they will have on ourselves and the world around us.

ICT (OCR) A2 Specification

Unit Three Coursework
40% of A2 Exam

ICT Project

This project allows candidates to develop their knowledge and understanding of ICT. The project is a substantial piece of work requiring analysis and design over an extended period of time, which is organised, evaluated and presented in a report. The project will focus on:

  • Definition, investigation and analysis
  • Design
  • Software development, testing and installation
  • Documentation
  • Evaluation

Unit Four 120 minutes examination
60% of A2 Exam

ICT Systems, Applications and Implications

This module covers communications between computers and interactions between humans and computers. A range of other information and communications technologies is also covered. Students will focus on:

  • The systems cycle
  • Designing computer-based information systems
  • Networks and communications
  • Applications of ICT
  • Implementing computer-based information systems
  • Implications of ICT

Structure of the Course
This course will be taught for 6 lessons per week. Homework will be set weekly and deadlines must be adhered to. Reading of textbooks is essential.

Recommended Reading
OCR ICT for A2 (Student Edition) Paul Long, Glen Milbery, Sonia Stuart

Fees and Dates