VCE Applied Computing focuses on the strategies and techniques for creating digital solutions to meet specific needs and to manage the threats to data, information and software security. The study examines the attributes of each component of an information system including people, processes, data and digital systems (hardware, software, networks), and how their interrelationships affect the types and quality of digital solutions.
VCE Applied Computing provides a pathway to further studies in areas such as business analysis, computer science, cybersecurity, data analytics and data science, data management, games development, ICT, networks, robotics, software engineering and telecommunications, and other careers relating to digital technologies.
At Catherine McAuley College, four units are offered:
Unit 1: Applied Computing
Unit 2: Applied Computing
Unit 3: Software Development
Unit 4: Software Development
Applied Computing
In this unit students are introduced to the stages of the problem-solving methodology. Students focus on how data can be used within software tools such as databases and spreadsheets to create data visualisations, and the use of programming languages to develop working software solutions.
In Area of Study 1, as an introduction to data analytics, students respond to a teacher-provided analysis of requirements and designs to identify and collect data in order to present their findings as data visualisations. They present work that includes database, spreadsheet and data visualisations solutions. In Area of Study 2 students select and use a programming language to create a working software solution. Students prepare, document and monitor project plans and engage in all stages of the problem-solving methodology.
Areas of Study:
1. Data Analysis
2. Programming
Applied Computing
In this unit students focus on developing innovative solutions to needs or opportunities that they have identified, and propose strategies for reducing security risks to data and information in a networked environment.
In Area of Study 1 students work collaboratively and select a topic for further study to create an innovative solution in an area of interest. The innovative solution can be presented as a proof of concept, a prototype or a product. Students engage in all areas of the problem-solving methodology. In Area of Study 2, as an introduction to cybersecurity, students investigate networks and the threats, vulnerabilities and risks to data and information. They propose strategies to protect the data accessed using a network.
Areas of Study:
1. Innovative Solutions
2. Network Security
Software Development
In this unit students apply the problem-solving methodology to develop working software modules using a programming language. Students develop an understanding of the analysis, design and development stages of the problem-solving methodology.
In Area of Study 1 students respond to teacher-provided solution requirements and designs and develop a set of working modules through the use of a programming language. Students examine a simple software requirements specification and a range of software design tools in order to apply specific processing features of a programming language to create working modules. In Area of Study 2 students analyse a need or opportunity, select an appropriate development model, prepare a project plan, develop a software requirements specification and design a software solution. Area of Study 2 forms the first part of the School-assessed Task (SAT) that is completed in Unit 4, Area of Study 1.
Areas of Study:
Programming
Analysis and Design
Software Development
In this unit students focus on how the information needs of individuals and organisations are met through the creation of software solutions. They consider the risks to software and data during the software development process, as well as throughout the use of the software solution by an organisation.
In Area of Study 1 students apply the problem-solving stages of development and evaluation to develop their preferred design prepared in Unit 3, Area of Study 2, into a software solution and evaluate the solution, chosen development model and project plan. Area of Study 1 forms the second part of the School-Assessed Task (SAT). In Area of Study 2 students examine the security practices of an organisation and the risks to software and data during the development and use of the software solutions. Students evaluate the current security practices and develop a risk management plan.
Areas of Study:
Development and Evaluation
Cybersecurity: Software Security
Mr Darren Scott: dscott@cmc.vic.edu.au