Aim & Purpose of Computing at Schools
I have created this website as an extension to the site on GitHub, and built on WordPress. Thie site outlines specific information about teaching computing at various key stages at UK secondary school levels, including Python and other elements
Learning computer science in school is very important for kids. A good computing education helps them think creatively and solve problems with computers, which can help them understand and change the world.
Computing connects to other subjects like math, science, and technology, and it helps students learn about both natural and artificial systems. The main part of computing is computer science, where kids learn how information and computers work and how to write programs. This knowledge allows them to create software, systems, and digital content.
Additionally, computing education ensures that students are comfortable using technology. It helps them express themselves and develop their ideas using digital tools, preparing them for future jobs and life in a digital world. This digital literacy is crucial as it helps them become active participants in an increasingly digital society.
Expected Outcomes at KS3
- Design, use, and evaluate computational models that represent real-world problems and physical systems.
- Understand key algorithms, such as those for sorting and searching, and use logical reasoning to compare different algorithms for the same task.
- Use at least two programming languages, including one text-based language, to solve various computational problems; use data structures like lists, tables, or arrays appropriately; and design modular programs with procedures or functions.
- Understand basic Boolean logic (e.g., AND, OR, NOT) and its applications in circuits and programming, and know how to represent numbers in binary and perform simple binary operations, such as addition and conversion between binary and decimal.
- Learn about the hardware and software components of computer systems and how they interact with each other and other systems.
- Understand how instructions are stored and executed in a computer system, and how different types of data (text, sounds, images) can be represented and manipulated digitally using binary digits.
- Engage in creative projects that involve selecting, using, and combining multiple applications across various devices to achieve complex goals, including data collection and analysis to meet specific user needs.
- Create, reuse, revise, and adapt digital products for specific audiences, focusing on trustworthiness, design, and usability.
- Learn various methods to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly, and securely, including protecting their online identity and privacy, recognizing inappropriate content or behavior, and knowing how to report concerns.
Expected Outcomes at KS4 – GCSE
Every student must have the chance to learn information technology and computer science in enough detail to continue to higher education or enter a professional career.
- Enhance their skills, creativity, and knowledge in computer science, digital media, and information technology.
- Develop and use their analytical, problem-solving, design, and computational thinking abilities.
- Understand how technological changes impact safety, including methods to protect their online privacy and identity, and how to recognize and report various concerns.