Strand 3: IT systems

Students are required to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the technical concepts within the IT systems strand. They are expected to demonstrate this technical knowledge by the use of correct and appropriate technical language and provide, where appropriate, a step-by-step description of how the IT system works.

Teachers must be aware that the technical knowledge should concentrate on breadth of knowledge rather than depth and should bear this in mind during the teaching of the course. In all of the topics, but particularly “Internet”, “Personal and public communications”, “Multimedia/digital media”, “Databases” and “Spreadsheets, modelling and simulations”, students are expected to carry out practical activities to reinforce their theoretical knowledge. It should also be noted that programming is not explicitly required as part of the ITGS course, although it may be used in the development of the project.

Due to the rapidly changing nature of IT systems, a list of new (additional) technical terms that will apply to future examinations will be provided for schools on the OCC.

3.1 Hardware

3.2 Software

3.3 Networks

3.4 Internet

3.5 Personal & public communications

3.6 Multimedia/digital media

3.7 Databases

3.8 Spreadsheets, modelling & simulations

3.9 Intro to project management

Reference: IB ITGS Guide