Examination Board  Oxford and Cambridge (OCR)

Syllabus Numbers   AS   H047 A2   H447

Assessment Modules for AS
Two modular papers 

Assessment Modules for A2
Three modular papers 
Coursework - project

The Examination Modules are: 

• Computer Fundamentals (AS and A2)
• Programming Techniques and Logical Methods (AS and A2)
• Advanced Computing Theory (A2)

Practical Work

 The Coursework Project is a piece of individual system analysis in which the student selects a real problem, analyses it and creates a computerised solution (A2 only).

Course Description

The course aims to develop an understanding of:
• the main principals of solving problems using computers.
• the range of applications of computers and the effects of their use.
• the organisation of computer systems including software, data, hardware, communications and people.
• the skills necessary to develop computer based solutions to problems.

In addition the syllabus specification encourages you to develop an understanding of the main principles of systems analysis and design, methods of problem formulation and planning of solutions using computers and systematic methods of implementation, testing and documentation.   Approximately 30% of the time is involved in practical work and 70% involved in theoretical work. 

Skills Required

Patience and Perseverance!   You will also need the ability to think logically and to break down a problem into component parts, then select appropriate techniques to solve the problem.   You will also need the ability to communicate ideas both verbally and in writing.

Career Pathways

 Careers in Systems Analysis and Programming.
 Careers in Business/Industry involving the use of computers.
 Higher Education.