Information Technology

Information Technology (IT) is a subject currently offered at Dainfern College in Grades 10 and 11 and in Grade 12 from 2013. It is a subject consisting of a practical and theory component.

In Grade 10, the learners are taught to program firstly using Scratch and later Delphi.

Scratch is an introductory programming language that teaches programming principles visually using “Lego type” building blocks. It is an easy way to create interactive stories, animations, games, music and art. Delphi is an Object Orientated Programming language that teaches solid programming skills.

In Grades 11 and 12 the learners continue programming in Delphi, building on the principles taught in Grade 10.

The theory component for all grades covers topics such as networking, hardware, software, data management, e-communication and the social implications of using a computer. These topics are expanded on in each grade in varying degrees of complexity, building on the previous year’s information. Web page design, a new topic, has been added to the new Grade 10 syllabus from 2012.

In all grades, emphasis is given to research and information management skills, which are important life skills.

Each year, the learners are expected to produce a large programming project called a Practical Assessment Task (PAT), which counts 25% towards their year mark. It is intended to be a showcase of the skills that they have mastered over the year. Over and above the PAT, the learners write two final exam papers, a practical exam and a theory exam.

The main focus of IT is the development of skills to solve problems and the use of critical and logical thinking, core 21^st Century skills needed by our learners to succeed in today’s society.

For further information contact Pam Macmillan.