AS Level / A Level Digital Technology (Full-Time/Part-Time)
Course Overview
The AS/A Level in Digital Technology is a full time Further Education course designed for students who have a keen interested in keeping up to date with digital technologies enabling them to develop skills that can be used in careers that utilise digital technologies.
Digital technology is used everywhere in today’s world and people with skills in using and developing these technologies are very much in demand. The programme combines practical skills with academic theory. Learners will develop understanding of how innovations in digital technology, and the increasing levels of connectivity between them, impact the lives of those who use them. Learners will also develop practical skills in developing creative digital products and digital solutions to problems faced by organisations.
6 GCSEs at Grade C or above (or equivalent) to include Maths and English.
The course provides a good foundation for further study of digital technologies in a related degree programme.
Graduates have employment prospects in many digital technology related careers such as forensic computing, website or app designing, digital marketing, data analysis and computer gaming.
AS Unit 1: Innovation in Digital Technology (Onscreen examination)
The unit is about acquiring knowledge and understanding of digital technologies. Topics include connected systems, smart devices and the principle of the Internet of Things. Development of artificial intelligence, including machine learning and robotics. Digital technology life cycles methods, user-centred design and uses of social media.
AS Unit 2: Creative Digital Practices (Practical Task)
The unit will require the learners to plan a project that leads to the creation, testing and refinement of a video game that meets the needs of a particular audience. Learners will design the components of the video game including character sprites and models, levels and terrain, audio and sound effects, game systems and methods of interaction.
A2 Unit 3: Connected Systems (Onscreen examination)
The unit examines topics such as data analysis, cyber security, resilience controls and social engineering. Digital technology networks and their role in communications and transmissions, and mobile technologies.
A2 Unit 4: Relational Databases (Practical Task)
The unit involves the design, creation and testing of a database solution with a connected web front end, to solve a realistic problem. Project management tools are used as part of an iterative approach.
This qualification will give learners the opportunity to develop practical skills in developing both creative digital products and digital solutions to problems faced by organisations.
AS Unit 1: Innovation in Digital Technology - 50% of AS, 20% of A Level - Assessed through an onscreen examination.
AS Unit 2: Creative Digital Practices - 50% of AS, 20% of A Level – Assessed through a practical task.
A2 Unit 3: Connected Systems - 30% of A Level - Assessed through an onscreen examination.
A2 Unit 4: Relational Databases - 30% of A Level – Assessed through a practical task.
Recommended equipment requirement: A Wifi ready, Windows 10 laptop/PC (with an i5 or equivalent processor). A webcam, microphone and speakers or a headset.
