GCSE Computer Science
Course Objectives
The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to:
- Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation
- Analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs
- Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
- Understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems
- Understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society
- Apply strong mathematical skills relevant to computer science
Unit Information
Component 1 - Overview Computer Systems
This component will introduce learners to the Central Processing Unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. It also looks at ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with Computer Science.
Component 2 - Overview Computational Thinking and Programming
Students apply knowledge and understanding gained in component 01. They develop skills and understanding in computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic and translators. Learners will become familiar with computing related mathematics.
Component 3 - Practical programming Students are to be given the opportunity to undertake a programming task(s) during their course of study which allows them to develop their skills to design, write, test and refine programs using a high-level programming language. Students will be assessed on these skills during the written examinations, in particular component 2.
Assessment
The OCR GCSE (9-1) in Computer Science consists of two externally-examined papers, component 1 and component 2 worth in total 100% of qualification. Terminal Examinations.
Why Study
Students who study GCSE Computer Science are introduced to core principles of computer science and develop skills in problem solving and computational thinking. They will gain experience of designing, writing, and testing computer programs, develop the ability to reason, explain and evaluate computing solutions, and develop awareness of current and emerging trends in computer science. The subject requires a high level of computational thinking and mathematical knowledge.
Careers Options
Computing, Computer Programming, Computer Operations, IT Product Development, Systems Analyst, Technical Support.
Key contact
Mrs C Heaney