Unit 2 Digital Authoring Concepts

In this unit, students gain an understanding of the concepts in the development of digital systems. They enhance the knowledge and skills developed in Unit 1.

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Topics will include:
Designing solutions – End User role in development / Associated content for Design Documentation / User Interface and accessible design / Compatibility / Digital development considerations / Multimedia applications and authoring (HTML 5 & CSS3) / Database development / Test Plans and effective testing / Evaluation of digitally authored systems against User requirements

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Unit 3 Digital Authoring Practice (Controlled Assessment Task)
In this unit, students design, develop and test digital multimedia systems.

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A solution to a specified problem must be produced which demonstrates:
Designing and building a solution using appropriate tools / Effectively testing and evaluating a solution in light of the specified User requirements.

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Key Stage 5

CCEA AS & A2 Level Digital Technology

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AS outline
Unit AS 1: Approaches to System Development

In this unit, students develop knowledge and understanding of the various approaches to the development of complex systems, the key stages in the development process and the outputs produced at each stage. The content of this unit underpins the learning that will take place in each of the three subsequent units. This unit is assessed through a 1 hour 30 minute written examination that includes both short and extended questions.

Unit AS 2: Fundamentals of Digital Technology
In this unit, students develop knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of any system such as data representation, computer architecture, software and the user interface. Along with Unit AS 1, the content of this unit will provide a foundation for progression to A2. This unit is assessed through a 1 hour 30 minute written examination that includes both short and extended questions.

A2 outline
Unit A2 1: Information Systems
In this unit, students develop knowledge and understanding of information systems. It acts as an extension to Unit AS 2: Fundamentals of Digital Technology for students progressing from AS Level. This unit is assessed through a 2 hour 30 minute written examination that includes both short and extended questions.

Unit A2 2: Application Development
In this unit, students have the opportunity to become involved in a real-world situation where they can apply their skills, knowledge and understanding of digital technology to solve a problem for a specified client. Students apply their practical skills to produce a solution and associated detailed documentation for the client.

Theory Topics Covered Include: -
Approaches to System Development, Programming, Data Representation, Data and Information, Hardware and Software, Web Technology and Multimedia, Networks, Databases, Applications of Digital Technology, Individual (moral), social (ethical) and legal considerations.

Resources:
The ICT department is serviced by three dedicated computer rooms providing access to hardware and both general purpose and subject specific software. Peripheral devices, such as digital cameras and scanners are available for coursework and extra-curricular projects.