Computer Science 

“It would appear that we have reached the limits of what it is possible to achieve with computer technology, although one should be careful with such statements, as they tend to sound pretty silly in 5 years.”
–John Von Neumann, circa 1949

As a discipline, computer science includes the theoretical study of algorithms, the design of systems and the practical issues of solving problems with hardware and software. In other words, a properly trained computer scientist should be able to not only understand and use existing computer programs, but also become a creator of new software, services and the solutions to problems that we might not even be aware of today.  Being able to design and write good software elevates learners from mere consumers to creators and frees them from a dependence on what is available today.  

• Develop proficiency in creating apps and algorithms across multiple programming languages, leveraging open-source code and APIs, to address complex challenges (Coding).

• Utilise technology to identify trends and patterns in data, thereby gaining insights into our environment and making informed future decisions (Data Science).

• Equip yourself to adapt to evolving technologies—such as the Metaverse, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, and Workforce Automation—that will reshape our professional and personal lives (Future-Proofing).

• Recognise the transformative impact of networked technology in facilitating information exchange, cultural understanding, and innovative new ways of working (Networking).

This course immerses students in the foundational principles of Computer Science through a blend of case studies and contextual learning. Students will engineer purpose-driven software, ranging from games and apps to solutions for local services or global concerns they are involved with. Student-led research projects will delve into topics such as the worldwide influence of networking, the digital divide, or the social implications of gaming. When feasible, guest speakers from the UWC community will offer valuable perspectives and real-world applications of technology.

Upon completion, learners can extend their studies by selecting Computer Science as an IB Diploma subject, available at both Higher and Standard Levels. Additionally, they will be well-prepared for another pertinent IB Diploma course, Digital Societies, which examines the societal impacts and ethical considerations of information systems.

Grade 9: Computer Science

The Grade 9 course introduces students to programming using the Python language and then uses this throughout the year to examine areas such as :

Creating Apps and algorithms

• • Introduction to Programming in Python

  • Creating graphics and games in Turtle and Pygame

Hardware

• • Hardware trends and future developments

  • Effects on the environment

Networking

• • Network fundamentals

  • Privacy and VPN technologies

Security

• • White Hat and Black Hat

  • Hacking exploits and defence against security breaches

  • Information wars

Data Science

• • Accessing large online databases

All topics include the positive and negative effects that they can potentially have on both peace and sustainability, thus supporting the UWC mission.

Grade 10: Computer Science

The Grade 10 course extends the concepts from Grade 9 and introduces the students to:

Designing systems

• • Programming in standalone Javascript with Node JS

Creating online applications

• • Embedding code in online websites with Javascript, HTML, CSS

  • Server side programming using using Node JS

Data structures

• • Using Linked Lists, Stacks and Queues etc to store data

Decision making tools

• • Creative tools to analyse data and make sense of data

  • Understanding how Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence really works

  • Using AI Models and their APIs to create generative content and solve problems

Future technologies

• • In depth look at technologies such as AI, Blockchain, VR, Automation, advances in Medical and Business tools.

Students will complete a personal project (application, website, video etc) at the end of Grade 10 which demonstrates their interest and development of knowledge in any of the above areas. Students are taught to apply a simple ethical framework which allows them to evaluate the legal, social and ethical implications of using information systems throughout the year.

• Students will enhance their Information literacy by learning how to find, evaluate and analyse online sources of big data on important topics such as the environment, migration, work patterns and health.

• Students will develop strong computational thinking which will allow them to understand how algorithms work and also how to produce programs which help their daily lives by automating repetitive tasks and easily solving problems that are unsolvable by hand.

• Students will apply their critical thinking skills to assess the potential impact of technologies that did not exist 5 years ago but which could drastically change the future of business, finance, medicine, and other fields.

• Students will practise and improve their communication skills by working together in small groups to solve new problems, or find new use cases for existing solutions.

The following qualities will be very useful to you in technical work: 

Creativity, Resilience, Commitment and Self-Management

The theoretical topics will help you to become a better:

Self-manager, Communicator, Decision Maker, and Principled learner

Various "low stakes" assessment snapshots will be taken along the learning journey, which includes quizzes, presentations, videos and simulations.  Students will also produce a portfolio showcasing their work, culminating in a project aiming to solve a real-world problem that they have become interested in during the course. Learners will demonstrate their complexity of thought as well as attention to detail and creativity through their work.