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-Tom Newstead, Ex-Rye Hills School

Computing

AS/A LEVEL COMPUTING

WHAT IS COMPUTING?

There is a very clear distinction between ICT and Computing. Computing uses a computer to solve problems by designing new sequences of instructions (algorithms) and running them on the computer. This course has an emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning, scientific and engineering based concepts. It is a good foundation for advanced logical reasoning. It has a greater technical emphasis.

WHY SHOULD I STUDY COMPUTING?

This course will appeal if you:

Are keen to develop an understanding of the main principles of solving problems using computers and a high level programming language
Want to learn more about the internal components of a computer, how they work and the technical side of networking and the Internet
Want to know how digital data manipulation & storage happens for text, pictures, sound and numbers
Would like to learn about how programming languages can be applied to storage and organisation of data

USEFUL SKILLS & INTERESTS

You should have a logical approach to solving problems, good presentation skills and confidence in using ICT.

COURSE STRUCTURE & CONTENT

In the AS about half of the time is spent on practical lessons, mainly focusing on problem solving through writing programs. The remainder of the time looks at the theoretical aspects, some of which are outlined below:

Fundamentals of computer systems
How computer systems store digital data
Internal components of a computer
The wide range of hardware devices
Data transmission and networking
Implications of the use of computers

In the second year students produce a computing based solution for a real end user, using the programming language skills learnt in the first year of the course. This is a significant piece of coursework and all the good practice of systems Analysis, Design and Implementation are followed.

The theoretical aspects are covered in the remainder of the course and focus on some of the following areas:

How a computer and associated communication technology works
How data can be stored and retrieved efficiently both in memory and on disc storage
Programming techniques
Communications technology, networks, the Internet and associated issues

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

There are two units examined at AS level. Unit one focuses on programming methodology and problem solving. Unit two focuses on hardware, logic and the impact of the everyday use of computing on society. Each unit makes up 50% of the AS marks.

COURSE COMMITMENT

Students will be expected to undertake self directed study to ensure successful completion of the course. This can be completed at college within your timetabled private study periods or at home. Students must also be prepared to put in extra study time in order to complete the project work.

COURSE COSTS

Students will be expected to purchase their own course text books. The recommended text is approximately £15. You will be given three hundred print credits at the beginning of the year but due to the nature of the course you may be required to purchase further print credits.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

The entrance requirements are set to ensure that you successfully complete the course and realise your potential. You will need a grade C in English because complex technological concepts need to be accurately described in written work. A grade C in Maths (Higher paper) is also required as numeracy and logical problem solving skills are a large part of the programming component.

PROGRESSION ROUTES

Computing students have the opportunity to go on to university, and around half follow computer-related courses, such as computer science, artificial intelligence, games design/programming, software engineering, systems analysis, informatics etc. or joint courses such as business management with computing or IT. Some universities now require a Computing A-level for some for their courses, for example Games and Animation at Teesside University. In today's workplace, those with knowledge and skills in computing have the opportunity to pursue new and exciting careers and to be instrumental in the conception of computer systems that increasingly shape work and leisure activities.