Computing Hub: Foundation knowledge of computer science for KS3 and GCSE (face to face)
Friday 26th May, 9:00am to 4:00pm
26
May
Summary
A high-quality computer science education equips students to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computer science forms the core of the computing national curriculum, a foundation subject and a vital aspect of a broad and balanced curriculum for all learners. If you’re new, moving towards or an existing teacher of Key Stage 3 / GCSE computer science, then this course will allow you to explore the foundation subject knowledge, required to teach computer science as part of the national curriculum. The sessions within this course are designed to give you the subject knowledge around key topics such as algorithms, data representation, hardware and programming, whilst also exploring useful and engaging strategies for delivering this content in the classroom.
Who is it for?
What topics are covered?
- 01 Introduction & data representation – during this session you’ll learn about key hardware components inside the computer and how computers use binary, convert between binary and decimal values and how images are represented by a computer.
- 02 Algorithms – this session will explore what algorithms are and how they’re used in computing, you’ll begin creating your own flowchart algorithms and learn how several search and sort algorithms function.
- 03 Programming (Part 1) – learn the principle programming constructs required, including sequencing and selection, this session will begin using these constructs in a block based language.
- 04 Programming (Part 2) – take the next steps with your programming knowledge by learning about iteration, in this session you will learn how to program both condition and count controlled loops in a block based language.
How will you learn?
Hands-on experiential learning with the collaborative support of your peers.
Expert advice and instruction on the computing curriculum and the expectations of a computer science teacher, from experienced classroom practitioners.
How long is this course?
The course is approximately six hours in duration.
Who is the course leader?
- Stephen Marshall
Head of Computer Science and ICT at St Aidan's C of E High School in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand why computers use binary and be able to convert between binary and decimal values
- Understand what an algorithm is and how to represent them by using flowcharts
- Be able to explain how search and sort algorithms work
- Be able to use a block based programming language using constructs sequencing, selection and iteration