NCEA Level 2 Digital Technologies

Aims

To build upon the knowledge and skills learned in Level 1 Digital Technologies with a key focus on the design and development of interactive and dynamic data-driven web pages and web based apps. To learn about key computer science principles underpinning the development of our digital outcomes.

Course Content

Most of today's digital content is provided through web sites and web applications. Within the context of dynamic websites and interactive web applications, learners continue to refine their process of designing and developing digital content (from Level 1). They will complete a project of their choosing to design, develop and test. Their final project portfolio will be submitted for external assessment. The project outcome will be negotiated between the learner and teacher to allow for special interest projects. Specific areas of knowledge and skill to be developed are:

using JavaScript and JQuery libraries to produce dynamic and interactive content
displaying data from a database on a web page to produce dynamic content
advanced CSS styling techniques and use of CSS frameworks
design and usability principles for web pages and digital applications
game design and programming
the software engineering process of designing, prototyping and testing
the computer science principles underpinning the development of digital outcomes

Skills

Digital Technologies are transforming and shaping how we live. Studying digital technologies develops the computational thinking, problem-solving and critical thinking skills that are necessary for innovation and intervention in the world by design. In addition, studying Digital Technologies:

encourages risk taking, lateral and divergent thinking, the development of multiple solutions to problems, trial and error, teamwork, and the management of resources effectively and efficiently
explores the role of human computer interaction, including its impact on culture and society, aesthetics, and acceptance of digital technology
seeks to empower learners to make informed choices in the use of technology and in their responses to technological change

Assessment

DCAT - Digital Technologies Common Assessment Task (External topics) Project Portfolios (Internal topics)

Qualification gained

NCEA Level 2 Technology (Digital Technologies) - full course completion a maximum 18 - 24 credits.

This can be made up from a range of the offered achievement standards. A minimum full time course is 18 credits.

This subject has links with

DVC, Visual Arts, Science, Mathematics, Social Sciences

Prior knowledge required

Recommended study at Year 11, an interest in design and problem solving; a creative mind; ability to work independently. Personal qualities: curiosity, perseverance, organisational and communication skills.

Next Step

NCEA Level 3 Digital Technologies

Achievement Standard

91891 2.2 3 Credit Internal Apply conventions to develop a design for a digital technologies outcome

91892 2.3 4 Credit Internal Use advanced techniques to develop a database

91893 2.4 4 Credit Internal Use advanced techniques to develop a digital media outcome

91896 2.7 4 Credit Internal Develop a computer program, using advanced programming techniques

91897 2.8 6 Credit Internal Use advanced iterative processes to develop a digital outcome

91898 2.9 3 Credit External Demonstrate understanding of a key aspect of a computer science concept

91899 2.10 3 Credit External Present a summary of developing a digital outcome

Learners will complete three compulsory standards (91891, 91897 and 91898 or 91899) Students will choose from the remainder of standards offered to make up a course of between 18 - 24 credits in total.

Course contribution: $30 indicative amount, may be subject to change.

On-line learning course materials