The Level 4 units lay the foundation of learning by providing a broad introduction to digital technologies and to a range of digital technology specialist functions. This develops and strengthens core skills, while preparing students to study specialist subjects at Level 5 or to enter employment with the qualities necessary for job roles that require some personal responsibility.Students will gain a wide range of knowledge tied to practical skills gained through research, independent study, directed study and workplace scenarios. Students are involved in vocational activities that help them to develop vocational behaviours (the attitudes and approaches required for a competence) and transferable skills. Transferable skills are those such as communication, teamwork, research and analysis, which are highly valued in higher education and the workplace. After studying a Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Digital Technologies students will have sound knowledge of the basic concepts of digital technology. They will be competent in a range of subject-specific skills as well as general skills and qualities relevant to key areas of digital-technology-related business.The aims of the Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Digital Technologies are:- to give students the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to achieve high performance in the national and international digital technologies environment, - to develop students with enquiring minds, who have the abilities and confidence to work across different digital technologies functions and to lead, manage, respond to change, and tackle a range of complex digital technologies, - to provide the core skills required for a range of careers in digital technologies, including cyber security, software development, data analytics, networking, animation, software testing, business analysis and change management,- to offer a balance between employability skills and the knowledge essential for students with entrepreneurial, employment or academic ambitions,- to develop students’ understanding of the major impact that digital technologies have on the business environment,- to provide insight into digital technology operations and the opportunities and challenges presented by a global marketplace, - to equip students with knowledge and understanding of culturally diverse organisations, cross-cultural issues, diversity and values, - to allow flexible study to meet local and specialist needs.