Key stage 4 in Computer Science

In Computer Science students combine practical and computer-based skills with creative thinking to design and develop systems that meet a range of needs. They learn to use current technologies and consider the impact of future technological and software developments.

Students learn about the impact of computers on our lives, how to apply key computer science skills to situations and understand how computational thinking is used in everyday activities. Students also develop an understanding of the ethical, cultural, legal and social impacts of computer usage.

Department aims:

  • Encourage and develop an understanding in Computer Science in students’ everyday lives and an awareness of its advantages and limitations.
  • Develop students’ Computer Science and Information Communication Technology capability so that they understand the importance of information, how to select and prepare it.
  • Develop skills in using hardware, peripherals and software.
  • Develop students’ ability to apply ICT capability across the curriculum and support their use of language and communication.
  • Explore attitudes towards ICT/Computer Science and the impact it has on day-to-day activities and to also evaluate the developing areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data.
  • Develop good health and safety attitudes and practices.
  • Game design and development.
  • Developing their problem-solving skills.
  • Alternative thinking to solve a problem.

Students are encouraged to be creative in the development of solutions, explaining the processes involved.  Making the subject relevant to the experiences of the students is important in developing their understanding and interest.  All teachers in Computer Science are specialists in the subject area and continually further their own professional development. New technologies are investigated and used to further develop the learning of students.

OCR Computer Science assists in developing an understanding of current and emerging technologies, how they work and how to apply this knowledge and understanding in a range of contexts. It gives students the technical skills and understanding of the use of algorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming. Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of computer technology to become independent and discerning computer scientists, who are able to make informed decisions about its use while being aware of the implications of different technologies. The course encourages students to acquire and apply technical skills, knowledge and understanding to a range of contexts, specifically in developing computer programs to solve problems. The course studied is OCR Computer Science (J276).

Examinations:

  • Two written papers
  • Computer systems (50% of the course)
  • Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming (50% of the course)

Programming Project:

  • The programming project covers 20 hours of programming techniques, analysis, design, development, testing and evaluation and conclusions.
  • This is completed over a 20 hour period and consolidates the learning of the practical aspects of the course.

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