Structure
The study is made up of six units:
Unit 1: Applied Computing
Unit 2: Applied Computing
Units 3 and 4: Data Analytics
Units 3 and 4: Software Development
NB. Students may elect to undertake one or both of these Unit 3 and 4 sequences
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 an object-oriented programming (OOP) language to develop a working software solution.
In Area of Study 1, as an introduction to data analytics, students respond to teacher-provided solution requirements, designs and data to develop data visualisations. They develop a solution that includes a database, spreadsheet(s) and data visualisations. In Area of Study 2, students respond to solution requirements to design and develop a working software solution using an OOP language. They develop techniques for debugging and testing their software solution to ensure that it works as intended.
Software tools
Applied Computing
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.
In Area of Study 1, students work collaboratively and select a topic of interest involving an emerging trend for further study to create an innovative solution. 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 while developing this solution. In Area of Study 2, as an introduction to cyber security, students investigate networks and the threats, vulnerabilities and risks to data and information. They propose and justify strategies to protect the security of data and information within a network.
Software tools