Level 3 Digital Technologies
13DIG Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Ms H. Chileshe.
Recommended Prior LearningLevel 2 Digital Technology or discretion of Teacher in Charge.
The focus for digital technologies at year 13 is on programming. Through programming students will learn problem-solving skills, project management skills, thinking skills, and relating to others; all key competency requirements of the New Zealand curriculum. Some students will be able to undertake COMP 101 Waikato University first-year paper.
Nature of Technology - students look at an area of technology considering the impact technology has had on our lives. Currently, we research and evaluate the area of automation (robotics), the impact it has on society. Looking at ethical and social issues that come from robotic automation. A report is written for an internal assessment term 1.
Programming - Students will be working with text-based programming languages such as python and javascript. Students develop a working prototype using project management tools to ensure that the project is delivered on time and is "fit for purpose". Students create a program for a given problem. A portfolio of work is developed during terms 2 and 3.
External Exam - students will focus on an area of computer science: NZQA will give the school the specific area of computer science to be covered later in the year.
Course Overview
Term 1
Student prepare for the project management and programming assessment learning how a graphical user interface is constructed using python TKinter. When ready students undertake a programming task using project management tools to ensure that the outcome is developed on time and is fit for purpose. Students will build, debug and test their program throughout the project.
Term 2
See the completion of the main programming assessment. Students then look at the nature of technology considering the consequences and challenges faced by us in an ever technological changing world. Compulsory unit for all students. This is a paper in which students research, discuss and write a paper on digital technology considering the future and how it will impact on our society. We question how technology makes us question what it means to be human.
Term 3
Students complete the final report, midway through the term students move onto external exam preparation.
Term 4
Level 3 digital technology external exam on computer science.
Career Pathways
Software Developer, Electronics Engineer, Information Technology Helpdesk/Support Technician, Information Technology Architect, Game Developer, Recreation Co-ordinator, User Experience Designer, Network Administrator, Geospatial Specialist, Penetration Tester, Scrum Master
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery$10 Software Licences