programme specification btec level 4 diploma in computing and
TRANSCRIPT
9/1/2015
BTEC
Higher Nationals
Computing and Systems Development
Specification
TOWER HAMLETS COLLEGE
1
Contents About Tower Hamlets College .......................................................................................... 3
Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) .............. 3
Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) ............. 3
BTEC Higher Nationals within the QCF, NQF and FHEQ ....................................................... 4
Purpose of this specification ............................................................................................ 5
Qualification titles covered by this specification ................................................................. 5
Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) ........... 5
Introduction .................................................................................................................. 5
Structure of the qualification ........................................................................................... 6
BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma ............................................................................................. 6
BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma ............................................................................................. 6
Structure of the Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Computing and Systems Development
(QCF) .......................................................................................................................... 6
Structure of the Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems
Development (QCF) .................................................................................................. 10
Progression from the BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma ............................................................. 14
Progression from the BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma ............................................................. 14
National Occupational Standards ................................................................................... 14
Teaching, learning and assessment ................................................................................ 14
HNC Selected Units at Tower Hamlets College ................................................................. 15
HND Selected Units at Tower Hamlets College ................................................................. 18
Learning ..................................................................................................................... 20
Assessment: ............................................................................................................... 20
Grading Higher National units ....................................................................................... 20
Pass grade ............................................................................................................ 20
Merit grade ........................................................................................................... 21
Distinction grade .................................................................................................... 22
Summary of grades ................................................................................................ 23
BTEC HNC Diplomas ..................................................................................................... 23
BTEC HND Diplomas .................................................................................................... 23
Qualification grades ..................................................................................................... 23
Qualification grades ................................................................................................ 25
Recognition of Prior Learning ........................................................................................ 25
Quality assurance of BTEC Higher Nationals .................................................................... 25
Monitoring of internal centre systems ............................................................................. 25
Programme design and delivery .................................................................................... 26
Mode of delivery .......................................................................................................... 26
2
Resources ................................................................................................................... 26
Delivery approach........................................................................................................ 26
Meeting local needs ..................................................................................................... 27
Access and recruitment ................................................................................................ 27
Restrictions on learner entry ......................................................................................... 27
Equality Act 2010 and Pearson equality policy ................................................................. 27
Professional development and training ........................................................................... 28
Bibliography: .............................................................................................................. 28
3
About Tower Hamlets College
Tower Hamlets College is based in east London, in the borough of Tower Hamlets. We
are recognised as a good college by Ofsted, for the quality of our educational
provision and wide progression opportunities for our students.
We provide education and training to young people aged from 14-18 years and to
adult learners. This includes a large offering of 50+ courses at A Levels to vocational
in a range of subjects including creative arts, IT, finance, health and social care,
science, catering, hair and beauty and trade skills as well as pre-university entry
courses such as Higher National Diplomas.
Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Computing and Systems Development
(QCF)
Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development
(QCF)
BTEC HNCs (Higher National Certificates) are level 4 qualifications. They are a
minimum of 120 credits in size. This qualification is an embedded component of the
HND. However, it can be taken as a stand-alone qualification.
BTEC HNDs are level 5 qualifications. They are a minimum of 240 credits in size.
If a learner enrols for an HNC they would be eligible to gain a grade for the HNC. If
they then move onto an HND, the learner is graded on their HND performance. The
grade for the HND will include units from the previously achieved HNC.
If a learner opts to take an HND from the start, then on successful completion of the
HND they will receive one grade for the HND achievement only.
If a learner opts to take an HND from the start but later chooses to revert to an HNC
programme, then on successful completion of the HNC they will receive a grade for
the HNC achievement only.
4
BTEC Higher Nationals within the QCF, NQF and FHEQ
QCF/NQF/
FHEQ level
Progression opportunities and examples of
qualifications within each level
8
PhD/DPhil
Professional doctorates (credit based), e.g. EdD
7
Master’s degrees
Postgraduate diplomas
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
6
Bachelor’s degrees, e.g. BA, BSc
Professional Graduate Certificate in Education
Graduate certificates and diplomas
5
BTEC HNDs (Higher National Diplomas)
Foundation Degrees, e.g. FdA, FdSc
Diplomas of Higher Education (Dip HE)
4
BTEC HNCs (Higher National Certificates)
Certificates of Higher Education (Cert HE)
Level 4 National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)
3
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diplomas
BTEC Level 3 Diplomas
BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diplomas
BTEC Level 3 Certificates
GCE Advanced Level
Level 3 NVQs
Advanced Diplomas
5
Purpose of this specification
The purpose of a specification is to meet the exam board’s requirements to set out:
• the qualification’s objective
• any other qualification that a learner must have completed before taking the
qualification
• any prior knowledge, skills or understanding that the learner is required to have
before taking the qualification
• any other requirements that a learner must have satisfied before they will be
assessed or before the qualification will be awarded
• the knowledge, skills and understanding that will be assessed as part of the
qualification (giving a clear indication of their coverage and depth)
• the method of any assessment and any associated requirements relating to it
• the criteria against which the learner’s level of attainment will be measured (such
as assessment criteria)
• any specimen materials any specified levels of attainment.
Qualification titles covered by this specification
Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Computing and Systems Development
(QCF)
Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development
(QCF)
When learners are recruited, they will be registered with Pearson. Providing learners
complete the described program of study, the qualification will be awarded.
Introduction
This specification contains a concise description of the intended learning outcomes,
and the means by which these outcomes are achieved and demonstrated.
Each unit sets out the required learning outcomes, assessment criteria and content.
This document also contains details of the teaching, learning and assessment. It
includes advice about College’s policies regarding learners’ access to our courses.
6
Structure of the qualification
BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma
The Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Computing and Systems Development
(QCF) is a qualification with a minimum of 120 credits of which 45 credits are
mandatory core.
The BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma programme must contain a minimum of 65 credits at
level 4.
BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma
The Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development
(QCF) is a qualification with a minimum of 240 credits of which 65 credits are
mandatory core.
The BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma programme must contain a minimum of 125 credits at
level 5 or above. However, there are some rules of combination to specify the total
credit value of the qualification, minimum credit to be achieved at the level of the
qualification, mandatory core unit credit, and specialist unit credit, maximum credit
that can be centre devised or imported from other QCF BTEC Higher National
qualifications.
Structure of the Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Computing and
Systems Development (QCF)
Unit
number
Mandatory core units — all three units
must be taken
Unit
level
Unit
credit
1 Business Skills for e-Commerce 4 15
2 Computer Systems 4 15
3 Employability and Professional Development 4 15
Specialist units — choose units with a total
credit value of 75 credits
4 Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation 5 20
5 Emerging Technologies 4 15
6 Management in IT 4 15
7 Research Skills 4 15
7
8 Management of Projects 4 15
9 Systems Analysis and Design 4 15
10 Human Computer Interaction 4 15
11 Digital Media in Art and Design 4 15
12 2D, 3D and Time-based Digital Applications 4 15
13 Multimedia Design and Authoring 4 15
14 Website Design 4 15
15 Website Management 4 15
16 e-Commerce Technologies 4 15
17 Database Design Concepts 4 15
18 Procedural Programming 4 15
19 Object Oriented Programming 4 15
20 Event Driven Programming Solutions 4 15
21 Software Applications Testing 4 15
22 Office Solutions Development 4 15
23 Mathematics for Software Development 4 15
24 Networking Technologies 4 15
25 Routing Concepts 4 15
26 Design a Small or Home Office Network 4 15
27 Network Operating Systems 4 15
28 IT Support for End Users 4 15
8
Unit
number
Specialist units — choose units with a total
credit value of 75 credits
Unit
level
Unit
credit
29 e-Commerce Strategy 5 15
30 Information Systems in Organisations 5 15
31 Knowledge-based Systems 5 15
32 Quality Systems in IT 5 15
33 Data Analysis and Design 5 15
34 Data Structures and Algorithms 5 15
35 Web Applications Development 5 15
36 Internet Server Management 5 15
37 Digital Image Creation and Development 5 15
38 3D Computer Modelling and Animation 5 15
39 Computer Games Design and Development 5 15
40 Distributed Software Applications 5 15
41 Programming in Java 5 15
42 Programming in .NET 5 15
43 Networking Infrastructure 5 15
44 Local Area Networking Technologies 5 15
45 Wide Area Networking Technologies 5 15
46 Network Security 5 15
47 IT Virtualisation 5 15
48 IT Security Management 5 15
49 Digital Forensics 5 15
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50 Work-based Experience 5 15
51 Computer Systems Architecture 3 10
52 Spreadsheet Modelling 3 10
53 Web Server Scripting 3 10
54 Multimedia Design 3 10
Vendor Certifications Minimum level required: level 3
A complete list of units for the vendors given below is now available on the
BTEC Higher Nationals in Computing and Systems Development section of
our website.
Vendor certifications are only available from the following vendors at the
levels indicated for this qualification.
Further information on vendor certifications is available on our website.
Vendor Certification Level
2
Level
3
Level
4
Level
5
Cisco
CompTIA
Linux
Microsoft
Oracle
VM Ware
Vendor Certification Level Minimum
Credits
Vendor Unit 3 7
Vendor Unit 4 9
Vendor Unit 5 15
10
The BTEC Level 4 HNC programme must contain a minimum of 65 credits at
level 4.
Structure of the Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and
Systems Development (QCF)
Unit
number
Mandatory core units — all four units must
be taken
Unit
level
Unit
credit
1 Business Skills for e-Commerce 4 15
2 Computer Systems 4 15
3 Employability and Professional Development 4 15
4 Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation 5 20
Specialist units — choose units with a total
credit value of 175 credits
5 Emerging Technologies 4 15
6 Management in IT 4 15
7 Research Skills 4 15
8 Management of Projects 4 15
9 Systems Analysis and Design 4 15
10 Human Computer Interaction 4 15
11 Digital Media in Art and Design 4 15
12 2D, 3D and Time-based Digital Applications 4 15
13 Multimedia Design and Authoring 4 15
14 Website Design 4 15
15 Website Management 4 15
16 e-Commerce Technologies 4 15
11
17 Database Design Concepts 4 15
18 Procedural Programming 4 15
19 Object Oriented Programming 4 15
20 Event Driven Programming Solutions 4 15
21 Software Applications Testing 4 15
22 Office Solutions Development 4 15
23 Mathematics for Software Development 4 15
24 Networking Technologies 4 15
25 Routing Concepts 4 15
26 Design a Small or Home Office Network 4 15
27 Network Operating Systems 4 15
Unit
number
Specialist units — choose units with a total
credit value of 175 credits
Unit
level
Unit
credit
28 IT Support for End Users 4 15
29 e-Commerce Strategy 5 15
30 Information Systems in Organisations 5 15
31 Knowledge-based Systems 5 15
32 Quality Systems in IT 5 15
33 Data Analysis and Design 5 15
34 Data Structures and Algorithms 5 15
35 Web Applications Development 5 15
36 Internet Server Management 5 15
12
37 Digital Image Creation and Development 5 15
38 3D Computer Modelling and Animation 5 15
39 Computer Games Design and Development 5 15
40 Distributed Software Applications 5 15
41 Programming in Java 5 15
42 Programming in .NET 5 15
43 Networking Infrastructure 5 15
44 Local Area Networking Technologies 5 15
45 Wide Area Networking Technologies 5 15
46 Network Security 5 15
47 IT Virtualisation 5 15
48 IT Security Management 5 15
49 Digital Forensics 5 15
50 Work-based Experience 5 15
51 Computer Systems Architecture 3 10
52 Spreadsheet Modelling 3 10
53 Web Server Scripting 3 10
54 Multimedia Design 3 10
13
Vendor Certifications Minimum level required: level 3
A complete list of units for the vendors given below is now available on the
BTEC Higher Nationals in Computing and Systems Development section of
our website.
Vendor certifications are only available from the following vendors at the
levels indicated for this qualification.
Further information on vendor certifications is available on our website.
Vendor Certification Level
2
Level
3
Level
4
Level
5
Cisco
CompTIA
Linux
Microsoft
Oracle
VM Ware
Vendor Certification Level Minimum
Credits
Vendor Unit 3 7
Vendor Unit 4 9
Vendor Unit 5 15
The BTEC Level 5 HND programme must contain a minimum of 125 credits at
level 5.
BTEC Higher Nationals are designed to provide a specialist vocational programme,
linked to professional body requirements and National Occupational Standards where
appropriate.
They offer a strong, sector-related emphasis on practical skills development alongside
the development of requisite knowledge and understanding.
14
The qualifications provide a thorough grounding in the key concepts and practical
skills required in their sector and their national recognition by employers allows direct
progression to employment.
Progression from the BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma
A key progression path for BTEC HNC and HND Diploma in Computing and Systems
Development learners is to progress to the second or third year of a degree or
honours degree programme, depending on the match of the BTEC Higher National
units to the degree programme in question. Tower Hamlets College in partnership
with QA has a strong academic link with the Northumbria University and successful
candidates on the HND course, will have the opportunity to progress to the final year
of a relevant degree course
Learners studying the BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma will be able to progress to the
workplace or to a BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma or a degree programme.
Progression from the BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma
BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) provides
greater breadth and specialisation than the BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma. They allow
progression into or within employment in the IT and computing sectors, either directly
on achievement of the award or following further study to degree level.
The qualification offers a progression route for learners to a number of roles in the IT
and computing sectors. ICT system support specialists can install or manage IT
networks. The BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma will also enable learners to progress on to
further study such as a degree or a Professional Development Qualification or vendor
qualifications offered by Cisco, Microsoft, IBM, CompTIA, Oracle and VM Ware.
National Occupational Standards
Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Computing and Systems Development (QCF)
provides underpinning knowledge for the National Occupational Standards, as well as
developing practical skills in preparation for work
Teaching, learning and assessment
Learners must achieve a minimum of 120 credits (of which at least 65 must be at
level 4) on their programme of learning to be awarded a BTEC Level 4 HNC and a
minimum of 240 credits (of which at least 125 must be at level 5 or above) to be
awarded a BTEC Level 5 HND.
The assessment of BTEC Higher National qualifications is criterion-referenced and
learners are assessed against published learning outcomes and assessment criteria.
All units will be individually graded as ‘pass’, ‘merit’ or ‘distinction’. To achieve a pass
grade for the unit learners must meet the assessment criteria set out in the
specifications. This gives transparency to the assessment process and provides for the
establishment of national standards for each qualification.
15
HNC Selected Units at Tower Hamlets College
All HNC units are at level 4 and have credit values of 15
Unit
Unit Title Aim and purpose Unit Abstract
1 Business skills for e-Commerce
To enable learners to
apply the business
skills needed to
design an e-
Commerce solution
for an organisation.
The first part of the unit considers the structure and
aims of organisations to better understand how they could
benefit from an e-Commerce structure. Then follows an opportunity to investigate and
evaluate the impact of e-Commerce systems on
organisations and their stakeholders. Once these areas have been studied the learner
will be in a position to examine the process of the development
of an e-Commerce presence followed by the opportunity to design an e-Commerce system.
2 Computer Systems To enable learners to
understand
computer systems
and apply theoretical
knowledge to
practical application
when building,
configuring and
maintaining
computer systems.
Learners will be able to apply their theoretical knowledge to
practical application by building, configuring and testing a
functional computer system which will meet a given specification. Computer users
also need the skills required to set up and carry out routine
maintenance of computer systems. Although this unit does not extensively cover fault
finding and repair, it includes the basic maintenance skills
that would normally be expected of most computer users.
3 Employability and Professional
Development
To provide learners
with the opportunity
to acquire
employability skills
required for effective
employment and to
manage their own
personal and
The unit considers the skills required for general
employment such as interpersonal and transferable
skills, and the dynamics of working with others in teams or groups including leadership and
communication skills.
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professional
development.
7 Research Skills To enable learners to apply the business
skills needed to design an e-
Commerce solution for an organisation.
On completion of this unit learners should be able to
conduct a literature review that will engage them in identifying
a range of primary and secondary information sources. Learners will be able to critique
sources and triangulate the information gathered to
determine currency and validity in the area of study undertaken.
14 Web site Design To enable learners to understand the concepts of website
design and apply their own creativity
in designing and developing interactive websites.
Learners will begin this unit by evaluating existing websites, in the context of cross-platforms,
range of browsers, and design features. Designing websites,
which are accessible to all types of users is a fundamental aspect of any website design.
17 Database design concepts
To give learners
opportunities to
develop an
understanding of the
concepts and issues
relating to databases
and database design
as well as the
practical skills to
translate that
understanding into
the design and
creation of complex
databases.
This unit explores database architecture, DBMS and the use
of databases in an organisational context.
Database design techniques are investigated and successful
learners will be able to apply theoretical understanding to design, create and document a
database system.
19 Object Oriented Programming
To provide learners
with an
understanding of the
principles of object
oriented
programming as an
underpinning
technological
concept in the field
of programming,
data management
Learners taking this unit will have the opportunity to develop their understanding of the
object oriented paradigm and develop code suited to a range
of platforms using the object oriented methodology.
17
and systems
development.
24 Networking Technology To enable learners to understand
computer networking concepts, how they
work, how they operate and the protocols, standards
and the models associated with
networking technology.
Learners taking this unit will explore a range of hardware
and technologies, culminating in the design and deployment of a
networked system. Working with many technologies, this unit can be used for mobile
systems, local area networks as well as larger scale wider area
networked systems. Supporting a range of units in the Higher National suite this unit
underpins the principles of networks for all and enables
learners to work towards their studies in vendor units if
applicable.
18
HND Selected Units at Tower Hamlets College
All HND units are at level 5 and have credit values of 15, except the unit 4,
which has 20 credits
Unit
Unit Title Aim and purpose
29 e-Commerce Strategy To enable learners to
understand how businesses and
organisations develop e-Commerce
strategies to remain
competitive in the global market.
This unit starts by considering customers’ expectations of e-
Commerce, because these will dictate implementation
priorities. When planning an e-Commerce strategy, it is necessary to assess the current
status of the business information and logistics
systems because these will provide the foundation for e-Commerce. Finally in this unit
learners will critically evaluate current developments in e-
Commerce.
30 Information Systems in
Organisations
To provide
learners with an understanding of how
organisations use information
systems to help them manage their specific
needs
On completion of this unit,
learners will understand the importance of effective information systems to an
organisation. They will be aware of the variety of options
available for information processing and know that these will inevitably change over time.
They will also use an information system to produce
management information.
33 Data Analysis and Design To provide
learners with the knowledge and skills
needed to understand,
design, query and implement database
systems.
On completion of this unit the
learner should be able to understand, design, query and implement a database(s).
Learners will also have a theoretical insight into the
requirement for designing a database that meets a given user or system requirement and
that is functional, user friendly and robust.
37 Digital Image Creation This unit aims to develop skills
and understanding in sourcing,
creating,
It is anticipated that a major proportion of this unit will be
practice-based, and thus learners should demonstrate competent use of digital
imaging systems in the
19
developing and
managing digital images for specific
purposes.
production of practical work.
Thus documentary evidence for each outcome will include images, their evaluation, and
supporting material that demonstrates knowledge and
understanding
42 Programming in .net To provide
learners with an understanding of the principles
of programming using a .NET
framework as an underpinning technological
concept in the fields of
programming and systems development.
This unit allows learners to
become familiar with the underpinning concepts of .NET framework programming,
without needing to develop particular skills in one chosen
language. Each of the languages has the capacity to develop event driven solutions
and it is not important which language is chosen as long as
the skills being developed and evidenced relate to the key .NET focus.
46 Network Security To provide learners with
opportunities to manage,
support and implement a secure network
infrastructure for a commercial
LAN or WAN environment.
This unit explores the social impact of network security, and
by designing a network security solution learners will understand
the importance of enabling the IT user to remain safe whilst being able to use the system
without unreasonable restrictions. Learners will
research, design and implement secure environments protecting IT systems and therefore
individuals from attack. Learners will implement a
proposed networked security solution, and manage the
implemented solution.
49 Digital Forensics To provide learners with an
understanding of the principles
of digital forensics and
the impact on commerce, society and the
individual.
Learners will need to understand and review cases
where the process of forensic analysis determines the
absence of direct criminal intent and serves as a process to
improve security and administrative processes as well as technological
implementation.
4 Project Design,
Implementation and Evaluation
To develop
learners’ skills of independent
This unit provides opportunities
to develop skills in decision making, problem solving and
20
enquiry by
undertaking a sustained investigation of
direct relevance to their
vocational, academic and professional
development.
communication integrated with
the skills and knowledge developed in many of the other units within the programme to
complete a realistic project.
Learning
Higher National diplomas are vocational qualification and would require active
learning. Trainers will adapt the most effective way of delivering and assessing a
unit or assignment considering individuals’ learning style. Learning strategies may
include:
● project work carried out as an individual or as part of a group
● lectures and seminars
● facilitated activities
● visits to companies with a facilitator to structure the visit
● visiting speakers from the vocational sector.
Assessment:
The purpose of assessment is to ensure that effective learning has taken place of the
content of each unit. Evidence of this learning, or the application of the learning, is
assessed through various assessment strategies such as presentations, written
reports, surveys, log books, production diaries, role play, observations of practical
tasks, production of products and peer and self-assessment.
.
Grading Higher National units
The grading of BTEC Higher National qualifications is at the unit and the qualification
level.
Each successfully completed unit will be graded as a pass, merit or distinction.
The following table is used as a guide to both learners and the assessors to ensure
the indicative characteristics reflect the nature of a unit.
Pass grade
A pass grade is achieved by meeting all the requirements defined in the assessment
criteria for pass for each unit.
21
Merit grade
Merit grade
descriptors Exemplar indicative characteristics
Centres can identify and use other relevant
characteristics. This is NOT a tick list.
In order to achieve a
merit the learner must:
The learner’s evidence shows for example:
identify and apply
strategies to find
appropriate solutions
• effective judgements have been made
• complex problems with more than one
variable have been explored
• an effective approach to study and research
has
been applied
select/design and
apply appropriate
methods/techniques
• relevant theories and techniques have been
applied
• a range of methods and techniques have been
applied
• a range of sources of information has been
used
• the selection of methods and
techniques/sources has been justified
• the design of methods/techniques has been
justified
• complex information/data has been
synthesised and processed
• appropriate learning methods/techniques have
been applied
present and
communicate
appropriate findings
• the appropriate structure and approach has
been used
• coherent, logical development of
principles/concepts for the intended audience
• a range of methods of presentation have been
used and technical language has been
accurately used communication has taken
place in familiar and unfamiliar contexts
• the communication is appropriate for familiar
and unfamiliar audiences and appropriate
media have been used.
22
Distinction grade
Distinction grade
descriptors Exemplar indicative characteristics
Centres can identify and use other relevant
characteristics. This is NOT a tick list.
In order to achieve a
distinction the learner
must:
The learner’s evidence shows for example:
use critical reflection
to evaluate own
work and justify
valid conclusions
• conclusions have been arrived at through
synthesis of ideas and have been justified
• the validity of results has been evaluated using
defined criteria
• self-criticism of approach has taken place
• realistic improvements have been proposed
against
defined characteristics for success
take responsibility
for managing and
organising activities
• autonomy/independence has been
demonstrated
• substantial activities, projects or investigations
have been planned, managed and organised
• activities have been managed
• the unforeseen has been accommodated
• the importance of interdependence has been
recognised and achieved
demonstrate
convergent/lateral/
creative thinking
• ideas have been generated and decisions taken
• self-evaluation has taken place
• convergent and lateral thinking have been
applied
• problems have been solved
• innovation and creative thought have been
applied
• receptiveness to new ideas is evident
• effective thinking has taken place in unfamiliar
contexts.
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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 a 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.
BTEC HNC Diplomas
To achieve the qualification a learner must:
• achieve at least 120 credits at or above the level of the qualification (a
maximum of 55 credits may be at Level 5) achieve a minimum of 65
credits at Level 4
• complete a valid combination of units.
BTEC HND Diplomas
To achieve the qualification a learner must:
• achieve at least 240 credits at or above the level of the qualification
• achieve a minimum of 125 credits at Level 5 or above.
Qualification grades
Learners will be awarded a pass, merit or distinction qualification grade using the
points gained through the 75 best credits based on unit achievement.
24
Unit credit points available for specified unit grades, for either Level 4 or
Level 5 units
Unit points per credit
Pass Merit Distinction
0 1 2
Example for level 4 or level 5 unit of 15 credits
Pass Merit Distinction
0 15 30
BTEC Level 4 HNC overall qualification grades
Points range Grade
0–74 Pass P
75–149 Merit M
150 Distinction D
BTEC HND Diplomas
The grade achieved in units from an appropriate HNC may contribute to an HND
grade.
If a learner moves from HNC to HND, credits at Level 5 or above from both the HNC
and HND can contribute to the best 75 credits of the overall HND grade
Calculation of the BTEC HND qualification grade is based on the learner’s best
performance in units at or above the level of the qualification – i.e. only units at
level 5 can be counted towards the value of 75 credits:
• The best 75 credits must come from a maximum of 240 credits as a valid rule of
combination
• The units from which the 75 best credits are selected come from the whole
qualification including the mandatory core credit, but must be level 5 units or
above.
This means that credit from some mandatory core units is likely to form part of the
best 75 credits in most programmes (the mandatory core credit units will
25
automatically be included in the calculation once the maximum amount of credit for
optional specialist units for the rule of combination is used up.)
Qualification grades
Learners will be awarded a pass, merit or distinction qualification grade using the
points gained through the 75 best credits based on unit achievement.
Unit credit points for specified unit grades at Level 5 only
Unit points per
credit
Pass Merit Distinction
0 1 2
BTEC Level 5 HND overall qualification grades
Points range Grade
0–74 Pass P
75–149 Merit M
150 Distinction D
Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a method of assessment (leading to the award
of credit) that considers whether a learner can demonstrate that they can meet the
assessment requirements for a unit through knowledge, understanding or skills they
already possess and so do not need to develop through a course of learning.
RPL will be awarded in accordance with Pearson’s policy on RPL.
Quality assurance of BTEC Higher Nationals
College will ensure that the quality assurance system for all BTEC higher-level
programmes on the QCF at Levels 4–5 are in accordance with quality assurance
processes to review programme delivery. The first stage of the quality assurance
process would be seeking approval for the delivery of this programme. On completion
of the approval process the college will be engaged in the second phase, which is
monitoring of internal centre systems
Monitoring of internal centre systems
The college will ensure consistent application of policies affecting learner registrations,
appeals, effective internal assessment and standardisation processes. This is achieved
through range of CPD sessions and standardisation meetings. A sample of learners’
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assessed work will be internally moderated and reviewed by a Pearson appointed
External Examiner. All actions plans will be followed up and completed before
certification is released and any recommendations will be actioned to improve the
quality of the provision.
Programme design and delivery
HNC Units:
1 Business Skills for eCommerce
2 Computer Systems
3 Employability & Professional Development
7 Research Skills
14 Website Design
17 Database Design Concepts
19 Object Oriented Programming
24 Networking Technologies
Each unit will be delivered in a 4 hour block for 12 weeks over 2 days a week.
HND Units:
4 Project Design, Implementation & Evaluation
27 eCommerce Strategy
30 Information Systems in Organisation
33 Data Analysis and Design
37 Digital Image Creation
42 Programming in .NET
46 Network Security
49 Digital Forensics
Mode of delivery
Delivery will be through traditional classroom teaching and learning. There are
opportunity for learners working in the same sector to be assessed at the work
environment. In such cases, the Assessor will coordinate and liaise with employers to
ensure the relevance and suitability of certain activities.
Resources
College will provide adequate provision for resources required specified in each unit.
Learners have access to IT facilities in the classroom. There will be an IT lab to
enable practical delivery of certain units.
Delivery approach
Tutors and assessors are experienced in linking are made between theory and
practice with relevant and up-to-date teaching materials. There will be a focus on
using learner’s experience at work.
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Meeting local needs
The units are designed to meet the skill needs of the sector and the specialist units
allow coverage of the full range of employment within the sector. The majority of
units are recommended by our university partner to allow a smooth and successful
progression to BSc programs.
Access and recruitment
College follow’s Pearson’s policy regarding access to the qualifications:
• qualifications should be available to everyone who is capable of reaching the
required standards
• qualifications should be free from any barriers that restrict access and progression
• there must be equal opportunities for everyone wishing to access the qualification.
College will recruit learners to BTEC Higher National qualifications with integrity. This
will include ensuring that applicants have appropriate information and advice about
the qualifications and that the qualification will meet their needs. Applicants will
undergo appropriate assessment for the college to make a professional judgement
about their ability to successfully complete the programme of study and achieve the
qualification.
College will review the profile of qualifications and/or experience held by applicants,
considering whether this profile shows an ability to progress to level 4 or level 5
qualifications. For learners who have recently been in education, the entry profile is
likely to include one of the following:
• a BTEC Level 3 qualification in IT
• a GCE level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or
an adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is likely to be
supported by GCSE grades at A* to C
• other related level 3 qualifications
• an Access to Higher Education Certificate received from an approved further
education institution
• related work experience.
Mature learners may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to
include extensive work experience (paid and/or unpaid) and/or achievement of a
range of professional qualifications in their work sector.
Restrictions on learner entry
The BTEC Higher National qualifications are accredited on the QCF for learners aged
18 years and over.
Equality Act 2010 and Pearson equality policy
The College respects Pearson’s Equality Act and ensures that all learners have equal
opportunity to access these qualifications and assessments, and the qualifications are
required to be awarded in a way that is fair to every learner.
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Professional development and training
Delivery team will undergo a training from Pearson prior to the start of the course.
The course will support staff with a range of issues, such as:
• planning for the delivery of a new programme
• planning for assessment and grading
• developing effective assignments
• building your team and teamwork skills
• developing learner-centred learning and teaching approaches
• building in effective and efficient quality assurance systems.
Bibliography:
Adapted from Pearson BTEC Levels 4 and 5 Higher Nationals in Computing and
Systems Development (QCF) Specification – Issue 5 – February 2015 © Pearson
Education Limited 2015