National 4 Computing

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Entry Interest in Computing Science Content

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The Course has two mandatory Units in addition to the Added Value Unit.

Software Design and Development The aim of this Unit is for the learner to develop basic knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills in software design and development. Learners will develop basic computational thinking and programming skills through practical tasks using appropriate software development environments across a range of contemporary contexts. These tasks will involve simple features and straightforward contexts. They will also develop an understanding of how data and instructions are stored in binary form and how programming underpins computer applications. Learners will also explore the impact of   contemporary software-based applications on society or the environment.               

Design and Development The aim of this Unit is for the learner to develop basic knowledge, understanding and practical problem-solving skills in information system design and development. Learners will implement practical solutions using appropriate development tools to create databases, web-based information systems, multimedia information systems (and/or hybrids of these). These tasks will involve simple features and straightforward contexts. Learners will also develop an  understanding of basic computer hardware, software, and connectivity and security issues through a range of practical and investigative tasks.

Assessment

Computing Science Assignment This Unit requires the learner to apply skills and knowledge from the other Units to analyse and solve an appropriate challenging  computing science problem.

Assessment National 4 is internally assessed and is not graded.

WHAT WILL MY HOME COMMITMENT BE FOR THIS COURSE?

Regular homework will be set by the class teacher. Students can expect to be doing at least 1 hour of study per week which will include a selection of:  End of Topic formal homework ,  Consolidation of notes from previous week /Completion of exercises as home practice.  

IS COMPUTING FOR ME?

You will enjoy this subject if: 

Want to improve the world we live in, get a great job and earn an above average  salary?  Recent government announcements state that Scotland will need an estimated 11,000 new digital/ICT workers each year to meet current and future demand. Similarly, a significant number of people do not have the skills to prosper in the digital era. Careers could include - IT Technician, web and software development and computer programming.