This course caters for both students with little or no computing knowledge or skills and for students experienced in computing. It is designed for students with good analytical skills and who wish to develop a solid foundation in writing and creating software solutions covering a wide range of applications including business, science and technology. Students should have demonstrated a solid level of achievement in Mathematics and/or Science during Year 10 before undertaking SDD in Year 11.
Considerable time is spent learning to program using a variety of software languages and gaining the practical skills necessary to produce a number of software projects. The understandings of how to program are built upon to fully appreciate the steps and techniques used when designing computer solutions for real world situations. Students are encouraged to practice their programming skills at home but all tasks will be completed and assessed in class time. It is a mandatory requirement that students spend a minimum of 20% of Preliminary course time and 25% of HSC course time on practical activities using the computer.
Practical work will be assessed according to the criteria (quality of solution, interface layout, intrinsic program design, presentation and documentation). Theory will be assessed using written tests.
Develop skills in designing and developing software solutions and understand how software interacts with other elements of computer systems.
Understand the historical developments that have led to current practices in software design and development, and of emerging trends and technologies in this field.
Realise the importance of legal, social and ethical issues and the effect these issues have on software design and development.
Write and understand software solutions.
Gain skills in teamwork and communication associated with the design and development of software solutions.
On completion of this course you will have specialised programming knowledge allowing you to consider a broad spectrum of university and TAFE computing courses with a focus on computer programming and systems analysis
Career options include:
Systems Analyst, Project Manager, Merchant banker, physicist, pilot, engineer, stockbroker, investment analyst, computer programmer, architectural draftsman and PC support.
What does this course cost?
Subject fees: $60 in Year 11 and $60 in Year 12