Content Area 3

Emerging issues

Explore the impact of digital technologies on society and business, emerging technology trends, and their implications for the future of digital production and software development.

2
Subtopics
20-30 hours
Study Time

Contemporary Technology Awareness

This content area explores how digital technologies impact society, business, and individuals. Understanding emerging trends is crucial for professional development and informed decision-making.

Core
Content Area
2
Subtopics
20-30
Study Hours
Pearson
Qualification

Emerging Technology Trends

3.1 Impact of digital technologies

Available

Effects on organisational culture and society, digital inclusion and accessibility, user characteristics such as skills and age, and value of professional development.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Effects on organisational culture and society
  • Digital inclusion and accessibility considerations
  • User characteristics: skills, age, and technological literacy
  • Value of professional development in digital contexts
  • Social and economic implications of digital transformation
  • Digital divide and its impact on communities
  • Workplace culture changes due to technology adoption

3.2 Emerging technologies

Available

Trends and impacts in storage and processing including quantum, Internet of Things with edge computing, artificial intelligence including generative approaches, extended reality, open source, blockchain, environmental considerations, autonomous systems. Make informed judgements about their impacts.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Quantum computing: principles, applications, and implications
  • Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing architectures
  • Artificial Intelligence including generative approaches (GPT, diffusion models)
  • Extended Reality (AR/VR/MR) technologies and applications
  • Open source software movement and collaborative development
  • Blockchain technology: cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, distributed ledgers
  • Environmental considerations: green computing, sustainability, carbon footprint
  • Autonomous systems: robotics, self-driving cars, automated decision-making
  • Impact assessment and informed judgement frameworks
  • Ethical considerations in emerging technology adoption

Featured Emerging Technologies

Artificial Intelligence

Generative AI, machine learning, and intelligent automation

Internet of Things

Connected devices, edge computing, and smart systems

Quantum Computing

Quantum algorithms, cryptography, and computational power

Extended Reality

AR/VR/MR applications and immersive experiences

Learning Resources

Technology Reports
Industry trend analysis and impact studies
Case Studies
Real-world technology adoption scenarios
Discussion Forums
Peer discussions on technology impacts
Impact Assessments
Practice evaluating technology implications

Assessment Information

Emerging issues are assessed through scenario analysis, technology evaluation, and informed judgement questions about digital transformation impacts.

Impact Analysis
Evaluate how technologies affect society, business, and individuals
Technology Evaluation
Make informed judgements about emerging technology adoption
Future Trends
Predict and analyse future technology developments and implications

Explore the Digital Future

Begin with understanding digital technology impacts on society and progress to analyzing emerging technologies. This knowledge is essential for making informed technology decisions.