Advanced Higher Computing Science
What will I learn?
The course enables learners to:
Understand and apply computational-thinking skills across a range of computing contexts
Extend and apply knowledge and understanding of advanced concepts and processes in computing science
Apply skills and knowledge in analysis, design, development, implementation, testing, and evaluation to a range of digital solutions with increasingly complex aspects
Apply creative problem-solving skills across a range of contexts
Develop autonomous learning, investigative, and research skills
Communicate advanced computing concepts clearly and concisely, using appropriate terminology
Develop an informed understanding of the role and impact of computing technologies in influencing our environment and society
How will I learn?
Research activities to provide skills, knowledge and understanding in:
Data Representation
Technical specifications
Environmental issues
Security Risks and Precautions
Logical and Creative thinking
Problem Solving
Communication
Analysis and Design
Testing and Evaluation
Practical activities to develop skills using advanced functions within the PHP, HTML, Green Foot, JavaScript, Visual Basic and SQL programming languages, to implement solutions.
How will I be assessed?
Question Paper (80 marks) – Learners will complete a 2 hour and 30 minute written examination to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the Course Content and its application in a meaningful context.
Course Assignment (50 marks) – The purpose of the assignment is to assess practical application of knowledge and skills from the Units to develop an integrated solution to an appropriately challenging computing science problem. It will assess learners’ skills in planning and designing a solution to a problem, implementing and testing a solution, and evaluating and reporting on that solution.
Career opportunities
Students that enjoy Computing Science should consider careers, such as; Software Developer, Web Designer, Information Systems Manager, Multimedia programmer, Database Administrator, Software Engineer. The skills in the course are transferable to all areas of computing-related study including robotics, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, networking, cyber security, and systems analysis and testing.
SQA Links
Please use the link below to visit the SQA Computing Science National Qualifications page, there you will find the full course specification, past papers and marking schemes and a variety of useful documents:
Adv Higher Computing Science: https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/48508.html
