Information Technology

The BTEC Extended Diploma in IT is a modern, wide ranging IT course which aims to provide students with a career pathway into IT.  It will provide you with the skills to have a future as a games programmer, network technician, website designer, computer repair technician or project manager.

What will I learn?

• Gain a broad understanding of ICT and be able to study selected areas in more depth.
• Develop skills, knowledge and understanding of ICT.
• Have an opportunity to apply learning in a practical and realistic way.
• Follow a programme of study that enables progression to both higher education and employment within ICT.
• Gain confidence through developing independent learning skills.

There are 18 modules (equivalent to three A Levels.)

Modules of study:

• Computer Networks - learn which components make up a network and how they work together - then build a network.
• IT Systems Troubleshooting and Repair - this unit enables learners to develop the skills to troubleshoot, find appropriate remedies and repair a range of hardware and software faults in computer systems.
• Developing Computer Games - learn how to design and create your own computer game using a programming language.
• Database Design - learn database design and create, populate and test a relational database incorporating advanced features.
• Computer Systems - learn about computers components, how they work together and then build a computer and learn how to fix problems with them.
• Event Driven Programming - learn a computer language, and develop the skills and understanding required to design and develop event driven applications.
• Computer Animation - create computer animations for the internet and other applications.
• Website Production - design, create and publish websites using a range of software applications.
• Systems Analysis and Design - learn how to analyse problems with computer systems, and to design and develop solutions to the identified problem.
• Network Systems Security - learn about the threats to computers and networks and how to protect a computer from these outside threats.
• Communication Technologies - learn about the devices the computer uses for communication and how each works.
• Digital Graphics and Computers - learn how to design and construct your own images using the computer.
• Communication and Employability Skills for IT - learn about the personal attributes valued by employers in the IT industry and the principles of communicating information  whilst developing effective communication skills and looking at  their own personal development needs.
• Information Systems - information is vital to the efficient operation of any organisation.  This unit looks at the management and use of information and the tools that can be used to control and direct it.
• Client Side Customisation of Web Pages - learn to use cascading style sheets and Javascipt and then develop the skills required to implement web pages using these tools.
• Mathematics for IT Practitioners - learners will gain an understanding of the mathematics needed within the IT industry, along with experience of applying mathematics to IT problems.
• Spreadsheet Modelling - this unit aims to enable learners to create complex spreadsheet models in order to support organisational activities using a range of advanced features.
• Managing Networks - set up a computer network and learn the knowledge and skills needed to use the tools and technologies available to the network manage to manage a network.