Information Technology & Data Analytics

Cambridge Advanced Nationals prepares students for a world increasingly dominated by the use of IT systems. It is an ideal subject for students who want a broad education in IT as well as those looking to develop skills needed in a vocational or work context.

The course is designed to:
• Develop key knowledge, understanding and skills, relevant to the subject
• Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
• Develop valuable communication skills that are important in all aspects of further study and life
• Develop transferable learning and skills, such as communication, creativity, critical thinking, independent learning, problem solving and time management, that are important for progression to HE and can be applied to real-life contexts and work situations
• Develop independence and confidence in applying the knowledge and skills that are vital for progression to HE and relevant to the ICT practitioners sector and more widely.

Topics studied in the syllabus include:

F200: Fundamentals of Data Analytics
In this unit you will learn about the fundamental knowledge required for a career working in data-related occupations. Topics include understanding data, managing data, how data can be accessed and managed across platforms, legal considerations, job roles, skills and attributes in data analytics.

F201: Big Data and Machine Learning
In this unit you will learn about the challenges of managing big data and the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in data science. Topics include the scope of managing big data, the infrastructure challenges of big data, big data, machine learning and artificial intelligence, legal and ethical issues in data management, environment and society.

F202: Spreadsheet Data Modelling
In this unit you will learn the principles of data modelling with spreadsheets and the knowledge and skills required to plan, design, create, test and review a spreadsheet modelling solution that meets the needs of a specific client. Topics include principles of spreadsheet modelling, planning the design of a spreadsheet model, creating the spreadsheet model, delivering the outcomes and evaluation.

F205: Data Visualisation
In this unit you will learn the principles of data visualisation, and the knowledge and skills required to plan, design, create and review a data visualisation solution that meets the needs of a specific client. Topics include the value and importance of data visualisation, planning for data dashboards, techniques for creating a data dashboard, communicating information and interpreting data, evaluating the effectiveness of visualisation solutions.

F206: Data and Digital Marketing
In this unit you will learn the principles of digital marketing, and the knowledge and skills required to plan, design, create and review digital marketing material that meets the needs of a specific client. Topics include digital marketing fundamentals, data-driven digital marketing, planning digital marketing content, creating content for digital marketing campaigns, communicating to stakeholders, reflection and evaluation of working processes.

Assessment

For your overall qualification, you will get a grade between Distinction* and Pass from the OCR examination board. You will get a grade from Distinction to Pass for each unit.

Potential future pathways:

A good foundation in IT will enable you to follow one of a wide variety of career paths. Graduates and others with qualifications in IT and related areas have no difficulty in finding excellent employment opportunities. An IT qualification is a good basis for work in data processing, computing, programming and many other industries.

The Cambridge AAQ qualifies for UCAS points so if you complete it successfully you can move on to study for a BTEC Higher National Diploma or a degree in related subjects such as ICT, Computer Science, Information Systems, Multimedia, Data Analytics, Business Analytics, Digital Marketing and Information Management.