A5 Communications: module summary
All six Applied Science modules explore science used in real workplaces, from the viewpoint of practitioners. The Communications module provides an insight into three vocational areas:
• designing and making communications systems
• selling and servicing such systems
• using them.
In this module students experience and gain an insight into systems widely used in entertainment, and in personal and mass communications.
Many students will be knowledgeable about particular communication technologies, and will be motivated to share this knowledge.
Students are less likely to have:
• an understanding of general principles underlying these technologies
• skill in assembling and testing circuits
• an overview of factors shaping the communications business sector.
These are covered in the teaching resources.
Communications builds on students' work in the GCSE Science course, especially P2 Radiation and life
All six Applied Science modules have in common the five features which we think characterise applied science. The nature of the assessment for the course follows from these features.
1 A cluster of related contexts in which people apply science in their work – but with freedom to adapt to local circumstances
2 Authentic procedures and techniques (adapted as necessary for school laboratories) – ‘where the results matter’
3 Underpinning knowledge, including some big ideas of potential value for progression
4 The framework within which people apply science
• organisations
• employers
• regulators including health and safety
• social context including values
5 Applying knowledge and techniques to solve a practical problem
There may be communications businesses in your locality. The module will come across to students as more authentic if you are able to organise a classroom visit by a communications engineer and/or retailer. See also the Applied Science videos.
