COURSE CONTENT

Digital media now play an important part in our everyday lives and in the world of work.  With CiDA, pupils will learn how to manage and  present their work in an eportfolio and how to use a variety of software.  Skills in digital applications provide a wide range of career options, as well as a route into further and higher education. 

There are four units to work on.

The first unit Using ICT, covers the following software applications:

Other units provide skills in:

HOW WILL I LEARN?

Computer aided learning software, from the Edexcel website, will lead pupils through the practical tasks.  The tasks are based on pupils managing different sections of a summative project brief allowing business style problems to be solved as well as design opportunities to take place. Pupils are able to access their files from home using the learning gateway.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment is entirely based on coursework which are set tasks over 30 hours of work in the computer room. There are no examinations, instead pupils submit work in an eportfolio – an electronic folder directly to the examination board.

THE AWARDS

Pupils will be given the chance to take one to four units leading to a different award. Examples of these units are multimedia, graphics and ICT in enterprise.

Each unit's tasks may be attempted at Level 1 or Level 2, according to the understanding of the module task and pupil's ability to explain some of the skills they have used. The different levels will determine the grade they achieve.

AiDA

Pupils achieving one unit, AiDA, equivalent to 1 GCSE at grade A* - G.

CiDA

Pupils achieving two units, CiDA, equivalent to 2 GCSEs at grade A* - G.

CiDA+

Pupils achieving three units, CiDA+, equivalent to 3 GCSEs at grade A* - G.

DiDA

Pupils achieving four units, DiDA, equivalent to 4 GCSEs at grade A* - G.

HOME LEARNING

EDUCATION EXTRA, SUPPORT AND TRIPS

HOW PARENTS CAN HELP

Parents/carers are encouraged to support pupils' independent work either at home on their PC, or at school on the network.

SECURING SUCCESS

Detentions will be given to students failing to complete homework adequately, or not submitting homework without written notice from parents. Underachievement or unacceptable behaviour will be reported to parents.

STAFF

Head of Information and Communication Technology - Peter Beckwith

In case of any concerns or queries parents/carers should contact Mr Beckwith.