Aims of Course
The course introduces candidates to an advanced range of computational processes, where they learn to apply a rigorous approach to the design and development process across a variety of contemporary contexts. They also gain an awareness of the important role that computing professionals play in meeting the needs of society today and for the future.
The course enables candidates to:
- Develop and apply aspects of computational thinking in a range of contemporary contexts
- Apply knowledge and understanding of advanced concepts and processes in computing science
- Apply skills and knowledge in analysis, design, implementation, testing and evaluation to a range of digital solutions with some complex aspects
- Communicate advanced computing concepts and explain computational behaviour clearly and concisely, using appropriate terminology
- Develop awareness of current trends in computing technologies and their impact in transforming and influencing our environment and society
Description of the Course
The course has four areas of study:
- Software design and development: Learners will continue to program using Python, one of the world’s most popular programming languages. They will develop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills in software design and development, through a range of practical tasks that will have them create modular programs using advanced computational constructs.
- Computer systems: Learners will build on their N5 Computer Hardware knowledge to learn about data representation, processor operations and system performance.
- Database design and development: Learners will build on their N5 Database Design to develop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills in database design and development, through a range of practical and investigative tasks using SQL.
- Web design and development: Learners will build on their N5 Web Design to develop knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving through a range of practical and investigative tasks. This will enable them to create responsive interactive websites that CSS and Javascript.