The qualification encourages candidates to develop their knowledge and understanding of computer systems, the principles of computing (including programming) and how these are applied to the solution of problems. Additionally, the specification encourages candidates to gain an understanding of systematic methods – such as the use of algorithms and test strategies, the maintenance of computer systems, and the skills associated with documenting solutions – and encourages candidates to further develop skills associated with applying this knowledge and understanding to producing computer-based solutions to real problems.
Unit 01 – Areas of Study
The characteristics of contemporary computer systems:
Input, output, process and the components of a computer system
Software and software development:
Types of software and the methodologies used to develop them
Exchanging data:
How data is exchanged between different systems
Data types, data structures and algorithms
How data is represented and stored in different
structures and the use of different algorithms
Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues
Laws surrounding the use and ethical issues
that can arise from the use of computers
Unit 02 – Areas of Study
Elements of computational thinking
What is meant by computational thinking; abstractly, logically, procedurally and concurrently
Problem solving and programming
How computers are used to solve problems and programs can be written to solve them
Algorithms
The use of algorithms to describe problems and standard algorithms
Unit 03 – Programming Project
Candidates select their own user-driven problem of an appropriate size and complexity to solve. This will enable them to demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the Assessment Objectives. Analysis of the problem. Design of the solution. Implementation of the solution. Testing and Evaluation of the solution. The project will be completed using an iterative (Agile) process to mimic as close as possible real life problems and solutions.
A’ Level - Unit 01: Computer Systems – Externally Assessed – 40%
A’ Level - Unit 02: Algorithms and Programming – Externally Assessed – 40%
A’ Level - Unit 03: Programming Project – Internally Assessed (Coursework) – 20%
Grade 5 in Maths. Grade 5 in Computing, Physics and/or Electronics 5 if previously studied.
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