VCE Applied Computing: Data Analysis/Software Development
Aim
VCE Applied Computing focuses on three key areas: data analysis, programming and network security.
In the data analytics outcome, students collect, interpret, and visualise data to identify patterns, draw conclusions, and support decision-making. They learn how to manage data effectively using software tools such as spreadsheets and databases, and consider data integrity, privacy, and ethical issues when working with information.
In the programming outcome, students apply problem-solving methodologies and computational thinking to design, develop, and test digital solutions using a general-purpose programming language. They explore the structure of algorithms, use coding techniques to create functional programs, and evaluate their solutions against design criteria.
In the cybersecurity outcome, students investigate the risks associated with the transmission and storage of data and information in networked digital systems. They explore cybersecurity threats such as phishing, malware, and social engineering, and examine strategies used to protect data, including user authentication, encryption, and access controls. Using this knowledge, students propose and justify a security strategy to mitigate identified risks in a specific scenario.
Across the three outcomes, students gain practical skills while developing their understanding of the social, technical, and ethical implications of digital technologies in a connected world.
https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/curriculum/vce/vce-study-designs/computing/Pages/Index.aspx
Assessments
Units 1 and 2: Demonstration of achievement of outcomes and satisfactory completion of a unit is determined by evidence gained through the assessment of a range of learning activities and tasks.
Units 3 and 4: Two School assessed Coursework (10% each) and School assessed Task (30%)
End-of-year Examination (50%)
UNIT 1: APPLIED COMPUTING Area of Study: Data Analytics and Programming | UNIT 2: APPLIED COMPUTING Area of Study: Innovative Solutions and Network Security |
In Area of Study 1, students are introduced to the concept of “big data”. Students collect raw data from a range of sources. They learn techniques to extract useful information from this data, create their own summary table, use spreadsheet features to convert this into meaningful information and visualise data to communicate Data visualisations could include charts, graphs, histograms, maps, network diagrams and spatial relationships diagrams. They are introduced to python library to create interactive visualisation of their data.
In Area of Study 2, students are introduced to programming. They apply the problem-solving stages of design, development and evaluation to develop the solution. They learn Python and Visual Basic languages. | In Area of Study 1, students work collaboratively and select a topic for further study to create an innovative solution in an area of interest. The innovative solution can be presented as a proof of concept, a prototype or a product.
In Area of Study 2, examine the hardware and software components and procedures required to connect and maintain wired, wireless and mobile communications technology. They apply this knowledge to design a Local Area Network (LAN), describe its components and explain the transmission of data and information in this network. Students develop an understanding of cybersecurity issues when they investigate the threats, vulnerabilities and risks to data and information stored within and transmitted across networks, and propose strategies for reducing security risks. |
DATA ANALYSIS
UNIT 3 | UNIT 4 |
Students develop data visualization skills & techniques required to collect, manipulate and present their data using software such as database, spreadsheet and data visualization tools. They use this knowledge to propose a research question and develop a design for creating infographics or dynamic data visualisation. | In second part of their school assessed task (SAT), students create an Infographics or dynamic data visualisations that address their research topic and to communicate findings intended for a target audience. |
SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT
UNIT 3 | UNIT 4 |
Student develop range of programming skills and techniques required to design and develop software solutions. In the first part of their school assessed task (SAT), they identify a need or opportunity, analyse the requirements and develop workable design for creating a software solution. | In second part of their school assessed task (SAT), students apply programming skills to develop a workable software solution that meets requirements. |