International Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies – ICT Pathway

Compulsory education leavers (16+) and learners who want to gain an accessible route into Higher Education with the opportunity to progress on to undergraduate courses that require a higher level of study skills.

‍Target Audience:

• 16+

Diploma

Academic English and Study Skills (10 ECTS Credits)

This module is designed to help students develop academic competence and awareness of academic English and study skills in preparation for higher education studies.

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the module/unit, you will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

• Demonstrate organization of ideas and arguments in a clear and logical manner
• Ability to write English clearly and appropriately using an appropriate range of sentence structures and vocabulary
• Use citation and referencing appropriately
• Use the work of others in academic writing – summarising, paraphrasing, and quoting

Foundation Mathematics (10 ECTS Credits)

This module is designed to consolidate learners’ knowledge and competence in mathematics through topics in the areas of statistical methods and linear algebra. The mathematical techniques taught in this module will be necessary to build a wider set of mathematical skills across a broad range of disciplines.

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the module/unit, you will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

• Demonstrate an ability to carry out basic algebraic manipulation
• Plot graphs and apply general rules and principles of graphical construction
• Apply the concept of probability to find solutions to a range of problems

Computer Systems and Network Fundamentals (20 ECTS Credits)

This module is designed to enable learners to understand computer systems and computer networking concepts and apply theoretical knowledge to practical applications when building, configuring, and maintaining computer networking systems.

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the module/unit, you will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

• Compare different types of computer systems
• Evaluate the suitability of a system design specification
• Build and configure a computer system to meet a design specification
• Evaluate the impact of current network technology, communication, and standards
• Recommend potential enhancements for the networked systems

Object Oriented Programming (20 ECTS Credits)

This module enables learners to become familiar with the underpinning concepts of object-oriented programming and subsequently to develop particular skills in an object-oriented language. This module includes the features of object-oriented programming and explores different tools and techniques used in design and software development.

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the module/unit, you will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

• Evaluate the suitability of object-oriented programs for different applications
• Design an object-oriented application to meet user requirements
• Test an object-oriented application
• Create user technical documentation for the support and maintenance of a computer program

Assessment

Method of Assessment:

The purpose of assessment is to ensure that effective learning has taken place in the content of each unit. Evidence of this learning, or the application of the learning, is required for each unit. The assessment of the evidence relates directly to the assessment criteria for each unit. The grading of BTEC Higher National qualifications is at the unit and the qualification level.

Assessment is carried out through home-based assignments, which means you will have plenty of time to dedicate to each criterion. By having small groups, you will have more time for discussions where you can share your experiences at your place of work.

Teaching, Learning, and Assessment Procedures

This program offers both variety and flexibility, ensuring that the learning and assessment activities are relevant and of value for future progression. Throughout this program learners are continuously and actively involved in all teaching methods including;

• Lectures
• Hands-on activities
• Seminar
• Workshops
• Enquiry-based learning

Lectures and other teaching methods are delivered interactively, with discussion sessions and tutorials in the form of hands-on and problem-solving activities building on the relevant academic study skills including concepts and practices.

These activities help learners to use different research and online tools. Learners are asked to reflect on the tools and activities, inviting discussions with regard to their own knowledge and skill and adapting these tools to their current situations and contexts. Feedback is given where appropriate throughout the course.

Learners are also introduced to appropriate websites and other related material for further development of their knowledge and skills.

Grading System

Summary of grades

In order to achieve a pass in a unit

• All learning outcomes and associated assessment criteria have been met

In order to achieve merit in a unit

• Pass requirements achieved
• All merit grade descriptors achieved and all prescribed indicative characteristics

In order to achieve a distinction in a unit

• Pass and merit requirements achieved
• All distinction grade descriptors achieved and all prescribed indicative characteristics