Compulsory: No
Does it count for APS: Yes, full points awarded
Required for further studying: No
Useful for: Learning essential computer literacy skills required in daily life and business. More specifically: business, entrepreneurs, office work, web developer, database administrator, etc.
Practical component: Yes. CAT includes a Practical Assessment Task (PAT) which requires additional time outside of classroom time.
Special requirements/recommendations: Learners need to have access to a computer of their own that has the MS Office Professional package 2010 or higher installed, or should have access to Office 365. They will also need a 4Gb (minimum) flash drive.
More details:
CAT is the study of the practical use of computer applications, namely the use of Microsoft Office. Learners will become proficient in the use of MS Word (word processing), MS Excel (spreadsheet software), MS PowerPoint (presentation software) and MS Access (database software). Browsing skills and the use of email are also core components. In short, it will teach the basic computer skills necessary in most business environments today. (Please note that CAT does not teach computer programming.)
The theory component of CAT explores what computer systems are, how they work, their impact on society, the environment, the workplace, legal implications, responsible use of technology and implications on health.
NOTE: In 2023, CAT will be timetabled with IT. These two subjects may not be taken together.