ITGS Standard LevelMr Gavin Johnson

ITGSThe Diploma Programme information technology

in a global society (ITGS) course is the study and evaluation of the impact of information technology (IT) on individuals and society. It explores the advantages and disadvantages of the use of digitized information at the local and global level. ITGS provides a framework for the student to make informed judgments and decisions about the use of IT within social contexts.

Definitions used in ITGS Information technology - is the acquisition, processing,

storage, manipulation and dissemination of digital information by computing or telecommunications or a combination of both.

Social impact - includes the economic, political, cultural, legal, environmental, ergonomic, health and psychological effects of IT on human life.

Ethical considerations - refer to the responsibility and accountability of those involved in the design, implementation and use of IT.

An information system - is a collection of people, information technologies, data, methods and policies organized to accomplish specific functions and solve specific problems.

Aims of ITGS1. Develop an understanding of the advantages and

disadvantages of new technologies as methods of expanding our knowledge of the world at the local and global level.

2. Promote an understanding of the social significance of information technology for individuals, communities and organizations.

3. Analyse and evaluate the ethical considerations arising from the widespread use of information technology at the local and global level.

4. Recognize that people can hold diverse opinions about the impact of information technology on individuals and societies.

Expectations at ITGS1. Understand and critically examine the global impact of

IT developments.

2. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the social and ethical implications of IT systems and developments at the local, national and global level

3. Analyse and evaluate the social and ethical implications of IT developments

4. Express ideas clearly and coherently with supporting arguments and examples.

5. Design and apply IT solutions to a problem set in a social context through a project.

Section 11.1 Reliability

1.2 Integrity

1.3 Security

1.4 Privacy and anonymity

1.5 Authenticity

1.6 Intellectual property

1.7 Equality of access

1.8 Control

1.9 Globalization and cultural diversity

1.10 Policies and standards

1.11 People and machines

Section 22.1Basics: hardware and networks

2.1.1Systems fundamentals 2.1.2 Networks

2.2 Applications2.2.1 Software fundamentals 2.2.2 Databases and spreadsheets 2.2.3 Word processing and desktop publishing 2.2.4 Images, sound and presentations2.2.5 Modelling and simulations2.2.6 Tutorials, training and wizards (assistants)

Section 2 Continued2.3 Communication systems

2.3.1 The Internet2.3.2 Personal and public communications

2.4 Integrated systems2.4.1 Robotics 2.4.2 Artificial intelligence and expert systems