AS/A2 Computing AS/A2 ICT 2013 Entry
Computing & ICT 1987-2012 •
The department offers a range of courses to suit everyone
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Develop your theoretical knowledge and practical skills
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25 Years of inspiring individuals Dedicated, well qualified and enthusiastic members of staff
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In addition to lessons, help and support is available at a number of drop in sessions
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6 dedicated computer suites with wireless internet connection, printing facilities, interactive whiteboards and multi-media projectors
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Many students progress to continue their studies at university
1987-2012 25 Years of inspiring individuals
James’ Perspective At Carmel, you receive the very best in support to aid with your studies and help is always available any time of the week! Carmel’s work ethos really suits my learning style. Studying computing gives you an insight into the use of programs in everyday businesses showing you that what you’re studying is really valuable when progressing onto a career. I have also taken part in scientific enrichment activities, for example Astronomy; this gave me an idea of the work that occurs in science based industries and has provided me with inspiration for a future profession. When I leave Carmel I would like to go to university then progress to a career in the medical field.
AS/A2 Computing Exam Board OCR Why choose Computing at Carmel? AS/A2 Computing is a traditional course for those interested in following a career in Computer Programming; Systems Analysis; Network Engineering or any other Computer Science related career path. During the course you will gain an in-depth understanding of how the computer works and what it can do. It is suited to those who want to extend perhaps their personal interest in computers, or to develop skills such as programming. The Computing Department promises to provide you with a high standard of teaching and extra support to ensure you are successful. The department wants you to enjoy your studies and be part of its excellent achievements. What will I study? This AS specification encourages students to develop their knowledge and understanding of computer systems, the principles of computing (including programming) and how these are applied to solving problems.
research. This will help you develop organisation and time management skills. How will I be assessed? AS Unit 1: Computer Fundamentals (Exam) Unit 2: Programming Techniques and Logical Methods (Exam) A2 Unit 3: Advanced Computing Theory (Exam) Unit 4: Computing Project (Coursework) Where does this course lead? Computing courses have progression routes through to equivalent HND and Degree courses. For Computer Science degrees, A Level Maths is also required. Computing appears in a number of joint or related subjects, e.g. Geography and Computing.
Additionally to the AS, the A2 encourages students to gain an understanding of systematic methods used to solve problems. Students develop skills to produce computer-based solutions to real problems.
James Holdsworth Knowsley Park CFL Studying: Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Maths
Meet the Tutors Kay Arrowsmith Head of Computing Kathleen Gaffey Head of ICT Lesley Heyes Head of BTEC IT / ICT Tutor
You must be able to work unsupervised during study time on both practical and theory work and be prepared to undertake What support will I receive? All students receive extra support via individual and group tutorials throughout the academic year as required. Revision classes are scheduled prior to modular examinations in January and June. What is the department like? At Carmel College we have 6 dedicated computer suites with wireless internet connection, printing facilities, interactive whiteboards and multi-media projectors. In addition to these we also have a theory classroom. Students also take part in workshops on a range of topics such as website development at Hope University, Liverpool.
AS/A2 Information & Communication Technology Exam Board AQA Why choose ICT at Carmel? AS/A2 ICT will give you the opportunity to continue National Curriculum ICT at a higher level or will enable you to further your GCSE ICT study. It looks at the role of computers in everyday life and in the business environment. What will I study? AS ICT Topic 1: Practical use of ICT, identifying, designing, producing, testing, documenting and evaluating solutions. Topic 2: Data entry, storage, output of information, use of software and current health & safety legislation. Topic 3: ICT systems, their components, uses, users, safety and security. Topic 4: Data and information, data transfer, backup and recovery. A2 ICT Topic 1: Developments in
technology, information needs of organisations, ICT systems and management of ICT systems. Topic 2: Developing ICT systems and introducing ICT systems into organisations. Topic 3: Training and supporting users of ICT systems. Topic 4: Practical Issues involved in managing the use of ICT in organisations. Topic 5: Investigating, analysing and defining requirements. Topic 6: Selecting and using appropriate technologies, designing solutions, methods for testing and installation, documenting and evaluating. How will I be assessed?
Carmel has been a great experience. I have enjoyed every aspect of my two years here including studying all of my subjects as they are so wide ranging, especially ICT. This subject has enabled me to develop many skills both academically and practically and provided me with the opportunity, through my coursework, to enhance my ability to work independently. Carmel has an extremely high standard of education which is very impressive and it has been great to be a part of such an academically successful college. The highlight of my time spent at Carmel was achieving my results at AS and A2 and I hope to go to university to study Primary School Teaching and pursue a career in this.
At AS Level, Units 1 and 2 will each be assessed via a single exam lasting 1.5 hours. At A2 Level, Unit 3 is assessed via a 2 hour exam and Unit 4 will be assessed by a piece of coursework.
How successful are Carmel’s Computing and ICT students? Summer 2012 Examination Results: Computing ICT
Megan’s Perspective
GCE Advanced Level GCE Advanced Level
100% Pass Rate 98% Pass Rate
What are the entry requirements for these courses? AS Computing GCSE grade B in Maths. AS ICT GCSE grade C in Information Systems/Technology or CC in Applied ICT OR, if not studied, GCSE grade C in both English Language and Maths.
Megan James St Edmund Arrowsmith, Whiston Studying: ICT, Chemistry, Maths
Meet the Tutors Sandra Tickle ICT Tutor Philip Gorman Computing/ICT Tutor Emma Roberts ICT Tutor
Ryan’s Perspective I enjoy the welcoming and friendly environment at Carmel and feel right at home. I like studying Computing due to how different it is to any subject I have done before and project work gives you a lot of freedom. After Carmel I hope to go to University to study Computer Science and eventually pursue a career using the skills I have learnt.
ICT trip to Disneyland Paris A group of 19 students and 3 staff from the ICT department went on a very successful trip to Disneyland Paris. The 3 day trip included a number of stimulating, curriculum led educational sessions such as ‘The ICT behind Roller Coasters and Audio Animatronics’, ‘ICT and Hotel Operations’ and ‘Computer Graphics and Communication’. This study experience gave the students the opportunity to discover how ICT is put into practice in the real world. There was also time to experience the thrill of the rollercoasters and other rides too! A fantastic trip, enjoyed by students and staff alike!
Ryan Kelly Huyton Arts and Sports Centre for Learning Studying: Chemistry, Computing, Maths
Frequently Asked Questions
More Information You can get a detailed course specification from the exam board websites: For Computing: www.ocr.org.uk For ICT: www.aqa.org.uk
What is the difference between ICT and Computing? Computing students learn how to create software whereas ICT students learn how to use software. What is the difference between ICT and the BTEC IT? The main difference is that the BTEC is equivalent to 3 ‘A’ Levels whereas ICT is just 1 ‘A’ Level. The BTEC involves more practical work and a portfolio of evidence. Can I study Computing/ICT/BTEC if I have not taken it at GCSE? Yes.