The Cambridge Nationals in Information Technologies is a vocational qualification that takes an engaging, practical and inspiring approach to learning and assessment. The everyday use of IT, from PCs to smartphones, now impacts all our lives. The course reflects this and provides students with a solid understanding of the subject which they can use in their working lives. Computer technology continues to advance rapidly and the way that technology is consumed has also been changing at a fast pace over recent years. The growth in the use of mobile devices and web-related technologies has exploded, resulting in new challenges for employers and employees. Businesses today require an ever-increasing number of technologically-aware individuals and this qualification is intended to help students develop the skills they will need in the future.
Unit R012 written examination (50%) - Understanding tools, techniques, methods and processes for technological solutions.
You will sit an exam to assess your knowledge and understanding of different technologies, and tools and techniques used to select, store, manipulate and present data and information. You will also be assessed on what the phases of the project life cycle are, the interaction between the phases and the inputs and outputs within each phase.
You will need to understand the different risks associated with the collection, storage and use of data and how the legal, moral, ethical and security issues can have an impact on organisations and individuals. Along with how to mitigate said risks.
Unit R013 Non-exam Assessment (50%) - Developing technological solutions.
You will be given a project to develop a technological solution that processes data and communicates information. You will follow the project life cycle phases and demonstrate the practical skills you have acquired such as carrying out a SWOT analysis, creating GANTT charts, developing online surveys etc.
It is important to note that this qualification does not use grades 9-1 as it is not a standard GCSE. Grades for this course are as follows:
● Level 2 Distinction*, Distinction, Merit or Pass at Level 2
● Level 1 Distinction, Merit or Pass at
A Level 2 outcome is the equivalent of GCSE grade 4 or higher. A Level 1 outcome is the equivalent of grade 3 or lower.
Pupils that want to continue to study within this technical field, but don’t wish to pursue a career within Computer Science. It is more suited for those that want to explore the application, design and use technology in the working world. This course is also more suited for learners that prefer coursework-based assessment over examinations, as it is a vocational qualification.
This qualification provides a broad and solid foundation for further study of various aspects of ICT. Every place of work relies on the use of ICT, employers are looking for employees who are competent in operating a range of applications as well as a working knowledge of cyber security, data handling techniques and project management skills.