Computer Science
Computer Science
The study of computers and computing, encompassing the theoretical and algorithmic underpinnings, hardware and software, and applications for information processing, is known as computer science. The study of algorithms and data structures, computer and network design, simulation of data and information processes, and artificial intelligence are all included in the field of computer science. It integrates methods from fields like queueing theory, probability and statistics, and electronic circuit design since computer science has mathematical and engineering roots. Experimentation and hypothesis testing are frequently used in computer science for developing novel algorithms, information structures, and computer architectures. These activities include conceptualising, designing, evaluating, and improving them.
Computer engineering, computer science, information systems, information technology, and software engineering are all considered to be members of a family of five distinct but related disciplines. The computing discipline has evolved to refer to this family as a whole. These five disciplines are related because they all study computing, but they are also distinct because each has its own curricular emphasis and research methodology.
You don't need to have taken a formal computer science course before, and you don't need to have any special practical computing abilities because these can be learned in the course. To understand topics and answer exam questions, some of which call for essay-style responses, you do need to have a solid grasp of both English and mathematics.
Course Contents
- Fundamentals of programming
- Fundamentals of data structures
- Fundamentals of algorithms
- Systematic approach to problem solving
- Theory of computation
- Fundamentals of data representation
- Fundamentals of computer systems
- Theory of computation
AS Level Specification (Award Code 7516)
Paper 1 Assessed
On-screen exam: 1 hour 45 minutes, 50% of AS
This unit is an interactive, on-screen test that focuses on programming and allows candidates to show their theoretical understanding of the field of computer science by employing pre-release content to solve a problem-solving scenario. After completing this practical activity, students should be able to solve problems using the skills, information, and understanding they have obtained.
Paper 2 Assessed
Written Exam: 1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS
The exam for this unit will require both short and long answers. Unit 2 focuses on the hardware and software aspects of Computing and the social economic consequences of Computing and fundamentals of communication and networking. In this unit we will also consider the impact that computing has already had on society and individuals and the direction that new developments may take in the future. This unit is designed to give students the wider picture of the use of Computer Science and to enable the understanding of basic terms and concepts involved in the study of the subject. Students will be able to discuss and comment on issues from a position of knowledge and they can do this only if they have the knowledge and understanding that underpins the subject.
A Level Specification (Award Code 7517)
Paper 1:
Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A level
This paper tests a student’s ability to program, as well as their theoretical knowledge of computer science. Students should then be able to apply the skills, knowledge and understanding gained from this practical work to the solution of problems. In this unit we will also consider the Theory of computation, fundamentals of data structures and fundamentals algorithms.
On screen exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A level
This unit is designed to address issues associated with the management of computing and its use within organisations. Most organisations have the computing-related issues to consider on a scale appropriate to their own needs, for instance, how data is represented within the computer and the introduction on of new database management. The paper consists of compulsory short and extended-answer questions.
Non–exam assessment – The Computing Practical Project
- Assessed
- Internal assessment
- 20% of A level
Students complete a project involving the production of Computer related system over an extended period of time and they will be assessed based on the ability to create a programmed solution to a problem or investigation. In so doing, students will enhance their transferable practical skills and the will be working independently on a problem of interest. The Project provides an opportunity to test the candidates’ understanding of the connections between the different areas of computer science. It allows candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the systems development life cycle. The skills to be demonstrated include analysis, design, construction/ implementation, testing and evaluation of a substantial computer-based task. The report should summarise the work carried out by the candidate. Projects should be selected which allow candidates to demonstrate practical and problem-solving skills, as well as the techniques of documentation and system testing. The Project is centre-assessed and externally moderated by AQA.
- Arabic
- BTEC ICT