Computing Science is ubiquitous in modern life. From advancing technology to solving complex problems, Computing Science provides the tools and knowledge necessary to innovate and make meaningful contributions to society. It fuels technological advancements, enables automation, facilitates data analysis, and enhances cybersecurity. By studying Computer Science, young people will gain critical thinking, problem-solving and programming skills, preparing them for a wide range of careers in various industries. In an increasingly digital world, Computing Science equips individuals with the expertise needed to navigate and thrive in the 21st century.
National 4
Pupils will learn about:
- Information Systems Design and Development – Learners will implement practical solutions using a range of development tools. They will also develop an understanding of computer hardware, software, connectivity and security issues, and relate these to information systems.
- Software Design and Development – Learners will develop basic computational thinking and programming skills by implementing practical solutions and explaining how these programs work.
Pupils will complete a unit assessment for each of these units. They will also complete a project encompassing all the knowledge and skills learned.
National 5
Pupils will learn about:
- Computer Systems – Learners will gain an understanding of the inner workings of a computer. This includes how they represent and store different types of data (numbers, text, pictures etc), computer architecture, computer security and environmental impact.
- Software Design and Development – Learners will gain an understanding of the role of a software developer and the development process. They will also develop the computational thinking and programming skills required to design and implement practical programs which are based on those that would be used in real life. Additionally, they will learn to test and evaluate their solutions.
- Web Design and Development – Learners will gain an understanding of the role of a web developer and the development process. They will learn how to create interactive websites.
Pupils will sit a question paper exam covering all of these units. They will also complete a practical assignment which involves creating a software solution and a website.
Higher
Pupils will learn about:
- Computer Systems – Learners will gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of a computer. They will learn in more specific detail about how computers execute instructions and how this can be optimised for maximum performance. They will also explore more authentic and complex intelligent systems, how they can be secured and how to reduce their environmental impact.
- Software Design and Development – Learners will build upon their programming skills and learn to use more complex data structures. They will use more complex algorithms and functions to build more efficient programs.
- Web Design and Development – Learners will build more authentic and interactive websites which bear more similarity to websites which people use in the real world.
Pupils will sit a question paper exam covering all of these units. They will also complete a practical assignment which involves creating a software solution and a website.
