Aims of the Course

The Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) course focuses on building foundational skills and concepts in computational thinking and problem-solving using computers.

Develop computational thinking that is thinking about what can be computed and how, and includes consideration of the data required
Develop an understanding of the main principles of solving problems using computers
Develop understanding that every computer system is made up of subsystems, which in turn consist of further subsystems
Develop an understanding of the component parts of computer systems and how they interrelate, including software, data, hardware, communications and people
Acquire the skills necessary to apply understanding to solve computer-based problems using a high-level programming language.

CS video:

Copy of IGCSE CS.mp4

Details of the course

The syllabus is divided into two major sections:

1. Theory of Computer Science

This section covers the fundamental principles of computer science, including:

Data Representation
Hardware and Software
Computer Architecture
Logic Gates
Communication and Internet Technologies
Security
Ethical and Social Impacts of Technology

2. Practical Problem-Solving and Programming

This section focuses on programming and problem-solving skills:

Algorithm Design and Problem-Solving
Programming Techniques
Databases
Development Life Cycle

How is the course examined?

Grades range from A* —G.

There are two papers in the examination:

Career Pathways

Key skills developed are:

Computational Thinking: Learning how to approach problems in a systematic, logical manner.

Programming: Developing proficiency in writing, testing, and debugging programs.

Problem-Solving: Applying logical thinking and computational techniques to solve real-world problems.

Technical Knowledge: Gaining insight into how computer systems function, including hardware, software, and networking.

It can lead to the following career paths:

Entry requirements

This course would be suitable for students who:

Enjoy and are successful in ICT
Show good logical skills
Show good mathematical skills (for example, are achieving grades B and above in their Maths assessments)

Please speak to your ICT and Mathematics teachers to find out more about your suitability for this course.

cambridge documents

0478_y26-28_sy.pdf

0478_Learner_Guide_(for_examination_from_2023).pdf