Year 11 Applied Computing
(Units 1 & 2)

COURSE OUTLINE

Unit 1 

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 an object-oriented programming (OOP) language to develop a working software solution.

Area of study 1: Data Analysis

In this area of study, students use software tools to create data visualisations in response to teacher-provided solution requirements, designs and data. The software tools are used for the interpretation and manipulation of data to draw conclusions and create data visualisations that represent their findings. Data visualisations could include charts, graphs, histograms, maps, network diagrams, spatial relationships, infographics and dashboards.

Area of study 2: Programming 

In this area of study, students use an appropriate OOP language to create a working software solution in response to teacher-provided solution requirements. Students apply the problem-solving stages of design and development to develop the software solution.

Unit 2

In this unit students focus on developing an innovative solution to a problem, need or opportunity that they have identified, and develop an understanding of network environments, cyber security risks, threats to networks and strategies to reduce the risks to data and information.

Area of study 1: Innovative Solutions

In this area of study, students work collaboratively to design and develop an innovative solution to an identified problem, need or opportunity. They apply all stages of the problem-solving methodology to investigate the use of digital devices and emerging digital technologies and their applications.

Area of study 2: Network Security 

In this area of study, students investigate emerging trends in cyber security and how networks enable data and information to be exchanged locally and globally. Students examine the hardware and software components and procedures required to connect, maintain and protect wired, wireless and mobile communications technologies. They apply this knowledge to develop an understanding of cyber security issues when investigating security threats to data and information on networks. 

ASSESSMENT TASKS 

Unit 1

Outcome 1

• A folio of exercises to demonstrate the learning of database, spreadsheet and data visualisation software tools.

• A solution including the use of database, spreadsheet and data visualisation software tools in response to teacher-provided solution requirements and designs.
  
  

Outcome 2

• A folio of exercises to demonstrate the learning of an object-oriented programming language.

• A software solution that includes the designs, solution and a testing table in response to teacher-provided solution requirements. 

Unit 2

Outcome 1

• An innovative solution that includes an analysis, designs, the development of a proof of concept/prototype/product and an evaluation.

• A presentation (oral, multimedia, visual) of an innovative solution.

Outcome 2

• A teacher-provided case study with structured questions that investigates a cyber security incident and how it could be prevented in the future.