Computing

Aims of Department:

Standard Grade Computing Studies builds on the skills developed in the S1/S2 Information and Communications Technology course and is designed to educate pupils in the application of modern day computer technology.

The aims of Standard Grade Computing Studies are to: -

  • Provide students with practical software skills using word processors and spreadsheets.
  • To build on prior knowledge acquired at Standard Grade.
  • To provide a solid foundation for further study at HNC level or above.
  • To provide successful students with a recognised qualification.
  • To develop ability to solve problems by applying knowledge, understanding and practical skills.
  • To develop awareness of the professional, social, ethical and legal implications of computing.
  • Teach problem solving skills including planning, implementing and evaluating. Software Development and web authoring are used for this.
  • Educate students in various aspects of computing including their impact on society and how the inside of a computer works.

In S5/6 the department offer Higher Computing studies this course aims to:

In S5/6 the department offer Intermediate 2 and Higher Informations Systems the aims of this course are:

  • To build on prior knowledge acquired in Standard Grade Computing.
  • To provide a solid foundation for further study at HNC level or above
  • To teach students about MS Access and other common applications in preparation for work, college of university.
  • to develop critical skills, practical problem solving abilities and analytical skills in the use of a range of Information Systems
  • to foster an appreciation and awareness of the social, professional, ethical, and legal implications of Information Systems

Digital Multimedia Computing as a School-based course that is offered in S5/S6 the aims of this course are:

  • Develop knowledge of a range of modern applications of computing and digital media in current use.
  • Develop knowledge of a range of software applications and their selection to complete tasks.
  • Develop knowledge of the Internet and skills in evaluating information.
  • Develop core skills in information technology, communication, numeracy, problem solving and working with others.

Content of Courses:

The following topics are covered at Standard Grade:

  • General Purpose Packages using applications such as Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Serif Draw Plus.
  • Software Development using Microsoft Visual Basic
  • Computer Systems where the workings of the computer are investigated e.g. palmtops like modern mobile phones, laptops, desktops and super computers
  • Automated Systems and how technology has affected the work place and our lives e.g. Robotics
  • Web Authoring where students will learn how to create a small web site using Serif Web Plus
  • Commercial Data Processing where pupils will learn how computer technology is used in the business world, such as supermarkets, hospitals, travel booking systems and banking.
  • Computer Systems. This continues the study from Standard Grade and looks in more detail at the internal workings of a computer system, networking, computer software and computer viruses.
  • Software Development using Microsoft Visual Basic. This is developed further such that students follow the practices followed in industry when software is developed. This also provides project management and problem solving skills useful in your future career.
  • Multimedia Technology. This develops knowledge and understanding of the principles of multimedia technology and to develop practical skills in the capture, creation and storage of multimedia data through the use of contemporary hardware such as digital video cameras and software such as Pinnacle Studio and Adobe Photoshop.

The following topics are covered in the Higher Course: -

Information Systems is best described as Computing without the programming.

  • The Database unit introduces students to Microsoft Access, a database package recognised as an industry standard. Pupils will learn to design and create a Relational Database, and how queries can be written to search, sort and perform calculations on these databases.
  • The Using Information unit introduces students to methods used by businesses to retrieve and analyse information that will be useful to their business. It provides an opportunity to develop practical skills in the use of computer applications, and then apply this knowledge and skills to solve practical problems.
  • The Applied Multimedia unit develops knowledge and understanding of the principles of multimedia applications and practical skills related to the design and creation of multimedia applications through the use of hardware (such as digital video camera) and software (such as web design or presentation).

Digital Multimedia Computing course is made up from of selected units that can lead to other group awards such as Web Design Fundamentals and Internet Technology. The unit awards are intended to be as practical as possible, while developing underpinning knowledge and understanding. Each unit is allocated 40 hours.

Assessments

Assessment for Computing Courses:

In S3/S4 The course covers Credit, General and Foundation levels.  There are 3 assessable elements.

  • Knowledge and Understanding – externally assessed in a written exam.
  • Problem Solving – externally assessed in a written exam.
  • Practical Abilities – assessed internally through a series of practical classroom projects using applications examining pupils’ ICT skills.

The topics in the Higher Computing Course are split into three units. For each unit there will be a practical unit test and a written unit test. Both of these must be passed if students are to pass the final exam. If a unit test is failed then a course will be incomplete and students will be unable to sit the final exam.

There are two final assessable elements that make up a students grade. These are:

  • Practical Abilities and this is assessed internally through a series of classroom tasks. This accounts for a percentage of the overall grade (Higher – 30%; Intermediate – 30%).
  • A written exam set by the SQA covering both knowledge and understanding and problem solving.

Assessment for Information Systems:

For each of the three units there will be a practical unit test and a written assessment. All of these must be passed if students are to pass the final exam.

There are two final assessable elements that make up a students grade. These are:

  • Practical Abilities coursework which is assessed internally through a series of classroom tasks. This accounts for 30% percent of the overall grade.
  • A written exam set by the SQA covering both knowledge and understanding and problem solving.

 

Assessment for Digital Multimedia Computing:

Units will be assessed internally – no external examination. This School-based course consists of individual, stand-alone, units at Intermediate 1 or 2 levels. It does not lead to formal Intermediate 1 or 2 qualifications, although passed Units will appear on SQA certificates. Pupils will complete a practical assessment and a multiple choice or written assessment to pass each unit.

Career Information

Look for examples of how Computing is used in your everyday life, for example in supermarkets, banks and building societies, doctors’ surgeries, travel agents, schools etc.  You will be surprised at the range of uses you find.  A career in computing can offer variety, opportunities and the excitement of new challenges. The ICT skills gained on this course are often required for many jobs, careers and further education courses.