ICT

CCEA GCSE ICT – Full Course

The CCEA GCSE ICT builds on the Key Stage 3 accrediation scheme and provides a foundation for those students wishing to study ICT at a higher level.

GCSE ICT is split into two assessed components, examination and Coursework. The examination involves two papers for the full course available at two tiers. The examinations represent 40% of the GCSE. The theory aspect is divided into three sections which allows students to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of ICT and the impact ICT has on society. The theory sections are:

• Knowledge, Understanding and Skills in communicating, handling information and modelling
• Understanding of ICT Systems in everyday life
• Knowledge of ICT components
• Information Systems
• Digital communication systems
• Applications
• Implications of ICT for individuals, organisations and society

The remaining 60 % of the qualification is made up of Coursework which requires 6 assignments to be completed. The assignments, which are internally assessed and externally moderated, are as follows:

• Multimedia Presentation.
• Booklet/Report.
• Website Design.
• Internet Utilisation. 
• Databases.
• Spreadsheets. 

CCEA AS and A2 ICT

Both AS and A2 ICT allows students to:

• Develop an understanding of the main principles of problem solving using ICT.
• Develop an understanding of the range of applications of ICT and the effects of their use.
• Develop an understanding of the organisation of computer systems including software, data, hardware, communication and people.
• Acquire the skills necessary to apply the understanding to developing computer-based solutions to a problem.

Theory

Both at AS and A2 levels students complete two modules in each of the years. Each module is worth 30%. The modules studied include:

• AS Module 1 – Fundamentals of ICT
• AS Module 2 – Components of ICT
• A2 Module 1 – Database Management Systems
• A2 Module 2 - Uses of information systems

Coursework

The coursework is worth 40% of the AS level and 40% of the A2 level.

Both items of coursework are of a logical nature that applies a data-handling package to solve a given problem of high complexity. It will allow the candidate to demonstrate their skills in planning and designing a solution, software analysis, software development, and software application for a complex problem.