Information Technology: Applications Software 1(SQA HN Unit D75X 34)

This Unit is designed to enable you to use IT systems and applications independently to support a range of information processing activities. You should develop a broad knowledge of the theoretical concepts, principles, boundaries and scope of IT Applications. By the end of the Unit you should have learned how to plan for, develop and produce the relevant information requirements of users.
To meet the requirements of users you will be required to use and develop a broad range of skills in a range of software applications packages, (a minimum of four), such as, word processor, spreadsheet, database, simulation, graphics, communications, (ie Internet, intranet, email, etc), audio/music, animation, video, multimedia, desktop publishing, data logging and retrieval, control or other packages.
On successful completion of the Unit you will be able to:

1. Operate a range of IT equipment independently, giving attention to security and to other users
2. Use a range of software packages to meet complex information requirements

In Outcome 1 you will learn about the components of hardware, the functions of operating system tools and how these are used. You will also learn about data security measures and resolving common hardware and software problems. You will learn about all of the elements above in the context of meeting the needs of all users of a computer system.
In Outcome 2 you will learn about how to use a range of software packages to meet complex information requirements. You will learn about a minimum of four different software packages from the whole range of applications packages available. The emphasis in this Outcome will be on producing complex information in a context that is unfamiliar to you. You will learn how to integrate data types, (eg text, number, graphics, audio, video) into a single product and to format the product so that the final output is clear and helpful to users. You will find out how to: plan to meet users’ information requirements; select software packages appropriate to information requirements; select suitable computer data sources for information and extract suitable information from these computer data sources to meet relevant user requirements.

Credit points and level: 1 HN credit at SCQF level 7: (8 SCQF credit points at SCQF level 7)

This is a self study course which means you can study at home, workplace or wherever you choose at times that are convenient for you. You do not have any classes to attend.

For further information on this course, please visit the SQA website

The materials for this course are provided as web-pages for you to work through online. As you progress through the course materials you will find written explanations of each feature, followed by practical exercises.

You will be supported throughout the course by a specialist Distance Learning Tutor. Your tutor will contact you (via your College email account) within 7-10 working days of receiving your welcome letter and materials. As you progress they will continue to make regular contact to offer support and guidance, usually by e-mail but sometimes by phone, to ensure you are making good progress and to support your learning throughout. Please note that you must be able to study independently through the course materials.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

This Unit is largely of a practical nature; it lends itself to a single assessment containing a number of tasks in the form of a project or case study. An observation checklist is required for Outcome 1. Candidates will be required to submit evidence in the form of printed documents for both Outcomes 1 and 2. Files should be provided for candidates as appropriate to negate the need for them to enter large amounts of text or data. Candidates are to have access to on-line help, tutorial support and/or supplier’s manuals as required.

Your Tutor will mark your your certified assessments. Any re-submissions, known as remediation, will also be directed and remarked by your tutor. Your work will then be cross-marked by an in college subject expert, a process called moderation. It is only then that a result can be sent to the Awarding Body for certification.

A Pass is not final until all crosschecking procedures have been successfully completed. Your pass will be notified to the SQA for certification.

Assessments are booked through the BCD team.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

It is recommended that candidates should have sound keyboard and mouse skills and a thorough familiarity with computers and software packages. These skills may be evidenced by the achievement of appropriate National Units or Courses but they may also have been acquired in an informal or work environment.