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| Computing |
| Standard Grade Computing Studies |
| Higher Grade Computing |
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The Computing department is well equipped with three suites of modern multimedia PCs attached to the school network. The department provides courses in Computing and Information Technology from first year upwards.
Computing Staff
Mr D Park (PT)
Mrs J Moore
Mrs L Kerr
Courses
ECDL
PC Passport
Access 3 Computing Studies
Standard Grade Computing Studies
Intermediate 2 Computing
Higher Grade Computing
Contact
The Computing Department can be contacted through the normal school channels, or by email to Mr Park at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Standard Grade Computing Studies
Course Content
The Standard Grade Computing course includes the study of both computer applications and computer systems. Modern computers will be used to solve problems and develop problem solving skills in a range of practical situations. The broad based course will provide an increased awareness of the impact of computers and information technology on society and the individual.
Topics studied in S2 (2009/2010) include:
General Purpose Packages
Word Processing, Electronic Mail, Databases, Spreadsheets, Spreadsheets, Graphics packages and an introduction to Desk Top Publishing and electronic publishing.
Computer Systems
This topic includes Networks, Hardware and Software, Operating Systems and Data Storage techniques.
Topics covered in S3 (2009/2010) include:
Programming
The procedural programming language Visual Basic is used, the emphasis being on structured programming.
Industrial and Commercial Applications
This topic includes Robotics, Computer Aided Design and Commercial Data Processing.
Prelim Examinations
1. November of S3
2. March of S3
Topic Tests will follow at the end of all topics
Homework
Regular homework excercises will be set, based on the theory part of the course.
Higher Grade Computing
Entry Requirements
A Credit level award in Standard Grade Computing.
Course Content
Two Mandatory Units:
Computer Systems
The Computer Systems unit covers how computer hardware and software is organised, how data is input, stored and output, and to enable you to select computer systems to match specific requirements.
Software Development
The Software Development unit covers how software is created commercially and what is necessary in a modern software development environment. We will be using Visual Basic and will develop solutions to problems using the following stages of the software development process: analysis, design, implementation, testing and documentation.
One Optional Unit:
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence covers the development of artificial intelligence as well as the representation and processing of knowledge. Several aspects of artificial intelligence are investigated including: expert systems, search strategies, natural language processing, neural networks, and artificial life.
Computer Networking
Computer Networking covers Local Area and Wide area computer networks, studying the Internet, together with the ethical and legal implications of computer networking.
Multimedia Technology
Multimedia Technology is designed to introduce the software, hardware, media elements and standards which underpin multimedia. Practical competence will be developed in the use of hardware and software to capture and process media elements and develop problem solving abilities in this domain.
Scholar
On-line course materials are provided by the Interactive University Scholar project which can be accessed from home as well as school.
Assessment
- Regular homework is used to assess progress throughout the course.
- Each unit is divided into two Learning Outcomes. The learning outcomes are assessed by a short multiple choice end of topic test and a practical exercise.
- Coursework on the two mandatory units is assessed with a 10 hour practical test. The coursework counts for 30% of your final mark.
- The external examination in May covers all three units and counts for 70% of your final mark.
Homework
Homework should take at least 1 hour a week, and may be consolidation exercises, revision, research or exam preparation.
 Download Computing - Standard Grade - Course Timeline - 2009-10 | ||||
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| Download Computing - 1 Year Higher - Course Timeline - 2009-10 | ||||
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| Download Computing - 2 Year Higher - Course Timeline - 2009-10 | ||||
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