If you are interested in gaining thorough knowledge, understanding, and competencies for the IT sector with a view to progress onto a wide range of higher education courses, then the OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma in IT is the right course for you. It is a nationally recognised qualification, which will prepare you for many careers and further study at degree level and beyond.

You will study the field of Information Technology which involves the use of computers in industry, commerce, the arts, and elsewhere. You will be looking at the fundamentals of hardware, networks, software, the ethical use of computers, and how businesses use IT. This will involve studying global information systems, virtual and augmented reality, systems analysis and design, as well as how social media is used within the business world. You need to have a keen interest in Information Technology and how it can be used within the world of Business.

Course Content

Two mandatory core units:

· Fundamentals of IT

· Global Information

Three pathway-selection coursework units (Emerging Digital Technology Practitioner pathway):

· Virtual and Augmented Reality

· Systems Analysis and Design

· Social Media and Digital Marketing

Examinations

Exam Board: OCR

You will be assessed through five units of work:

· Two units are externally assessed through written examinations (90 minutes each).

· Three units are internally assessed through coursework.

The externally assessed units can be taken in January or June of years 12 and 13. For the internally assessed units, teachers can provide some guidance on coursework which ensures the students maintain a high standard in order to achieve a mark to their ability. Students will be able to manage their own time regarding completion around the hand-in dates set by their subject teacher.

Grades are given from Near-Pass to Distinction* for each unit. The cumulative points earned for all units will then influence the overall grade awarded to the student on completion of all five units.

Head of subject: Mrs N Alani

Entry Requirements

Level 2 pass in IT or 4 in GCSE Computing

Are you interested in: Understanding how technology impacts the world; Obtaining real-world ICT skills that can be used in future careers; Digital Technology; Virtual and Augmented Reality; Systems Analysis; Digital Marketing?

Leading to a career in: Software Developer, Cyber Security, Network Manager, Game Development, Data Analyst, Systems Engineer, IT Consultant, Digital Marketing Specialist

This subject goes well with: Maths, Physics, Business

Student views:

“It is a course that enables you to have hands on experience, after all technology is part of our future, and we need to decide how it can impact and shape our world.”