This Unit is included in the framework of a number of HNC and HND Group Awards, and should ideally be taught and assessed within the particular Group Award to which it contributes. It 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.
Credit points and level: 1 HN credit at SCQF level 7: (8 SCQF credit points at SCQF level 7)
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 (internet, intranet, email, etc..), audio/music, animation, video, multimedia, desktop publishing, data logging and retrieval, control or other packages. On successful completion you will be able to:
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.
The 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 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 cross-checking procedures have been successfully completed. Your pass will be notified to the SQA for certification. Assessments are booked through the BCD team.
Everything you need to know before applying for this course.
Candidates should have good keyboard and mouse skills and a thorough familiarity of computers and software packages. This may be evidenced by successful completion of appropriate National Units or courses, or experience in an informal or work environment.
Pre-entry guidance is required before booking a place on this course. Please contact our Distance Learning Co-ordinators for more information.
You may be required to attend College for assessment. Please check if this is a requirement for your course.
Your course may be free if you are not a full time student with NESCol and you are : in receipt of benefits; or care-experienced; or your household taxable income falls below defined levels.
This course is eligible for ITA funding which offers up to £200 towards the cost of training. Conditions apply.
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This course requires some attendance at College, often for assessment purposes only. Please enquire about expectations for your specific course when booking.
Attendance is usually at the Aberdeen City Campus or Fraserburgh Campus.
When submitting your distance learning application form, please ensure you attach the additional information sheet listing qualifications and previous knowledge with your application. You may be required to attend College for assessment. Please check if this is a requirement for your course.
Distance Learning courses have flexible start dates and applications will be considered at all points of the year.
For non-Scottish residents – the College will confirm fees payable for your chosen course on booking and these may differ from the advertised fee.
If you take up a place on a College course, at the start of the course you will be asked to complete an enrolment form. In completing the form and/or taking up a place on a College course, you will enter into a contract with the College and be bound by the North East Scotland College Standard Terms and Conditions of Study. Copies of the Terms and Conditions are available for inspection on notice boards and at various locations throughout the College, at the College Reception, on the College website: nescol.ac.uk, or can be obtained on request from the Student Funding and Admissions Manager, North East Scotland College, Aberdeen City Campus, Gallowgate, Aberdeen AB25 1BN. Please note that courses are offered subject to (a) there being sufficient numbers of enrolments and (b) the availability of resources. The College reserves its right (i) not to run courses where the number of students is considered insufficient or where resources are unavailable and (ii) in certain circumstances, to refuse admission to an individual applicant.
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