Head of Department: Mrs L.A. Hope                                    Board: AQA

At A Level students can study Computing at Monmouth School, or can study ICT at HMSG. These two courses are very different and students should take care to select the appropriate course according to their interests and aspirations. What’s the difference between Computing and ICT?

“A-level ICT...is simply about using Computers. Computer Science courses are concerned with an intellectual discipline which underpins computational processes and their application to the design of computers and software.” Prof. Nigel Smart, Head of Computer Science, University of Bristol

“ Computer science is one of the fastest growing disciplines in universities and includes exciting developments such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, mobile computing and the Internet.” Kings College University

“ The University of Edinburgh views Informatics as a discipline central to a new enlightenment in scholarship and learning, and critical to the future development of science, technology and society. In the age of information, computing technology is changing the ways we work and play. Informatics is changing the way we think.” Edinburgh University

Why choose Computing? AS/A2 Computing is suited to those who want to extend their personal interest in computers, or to develop skills such as programming. During the course you will gain an in-depth understanding of how the computer works and what you can make it do, exploring networks and systems development. It is a course for those interested in one of the most rapidly advancing areas of technology, leading to challenging and stimulating careers.

What do I need? A good level of computer literacy is required, a general interest in how computers and computer systems work, and a fondness for problem-solving. A GCSE in Information Technology is not required, but broad prior experience (more than games and internet) is advantageous and a good pass in GCSE Mathematics (B or above) should have been achieved. This demonstrates that the student has the necessary aptitude to tackle computer programming; but no previous knowledge of computer programming is expected.

How will I study?

Eight timetabled lessons each week will be divided between theory and practical. The course will involve programming which needs a structured and logical approach to problem solving. Both AS and A2 courses include academic theory in support of the practical work.

Will I enjoy Computing? YES - if you: • like solving problems (whether these are game-puzzles or real-life situations) • like making things that actually do something • are good at lateral thinking • are creative • are at home with abstract symbols • are curious about the technology which underpins everyday activities

AS Outline

The AS specification has 2 units: In the specification there are two units which allow candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of the fundamental principles of Computing.

Unit 1: Problem Solving, Programming, Data Representation and Practical Exercise Topic list • Stages of problem solving • The stages of development of a hardware/software system • Programming in a high level programming language and the fundamentals of structured programming • Expressing the solution to a simple problem as an algorithm • The binary number system, number bases and information coding schemes

Assessment: On-screen exam: 2 hours Candidates will submit print outs for externalmarking by AQA. Short answer questions. All questions are compulsory. Candidates will be expected to familiarize hemselves with a skeleton program and test data, published in advance, and to use it to answer questions and write a program during an on-screen examination.

Unit 2: The Computer Components, The Stored Program Concept and The Internet Topic list • The internal components of a computer • Hardware devices • The fundamentals of computer systems • The structure of the internet, networking protocols and the consequences of uses of computing. • Logic gates and boolean algebra

Assessment: Written Paper: 1 hour Question paper/answer booklet examination. Externally marked by AQA. Short answer questions. All questions are compulsory

A2 Outline

The A2 specification builds on the content of AS with focus on programming and problem solving including communication and networking. For the coursework unit, candidates are required to complete a report on a computer-based solution to a real problem that they have identified. The A2 specification has 2 units:

Unit 3: Problem Solving, Programming, Operating Systems, Databases and Networking Topic list • Programming paradigms and object oriented programming techniques • The role of an operating system • Database design • Algorithms and data structures for problem solving

Assessment: Written Paper: 2 hours 30 minutes. Short answer and extended answer questions.

Unit 4: The Practical Project Topic list • Evaluate the development of a computer-based solution to a real problem • Design a solution that meets the requirements of a real problem in terms of hardware and software • Document the analysis, design, construction, testing, training and maintenance of a programmed solution.

Assessment: Internally assessed practical project. Candidates will document the analysis, design, construction, testing, training and maintenance of a programmed solution to a real identified problem.

Where does this course lead?

Computing courses have progression routes through a range of Degree courses. For Computer Science degrees, A Level Maths is often required. Computing appears in a number of joint or related subjects, e.g. • Computer Science & Games Technology • Mathematics and Computer Science • Geography and Computing • Computer Science and Web Technologies • Computer Science with Music Technology • Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence

If you have any questions about this course, please contact Mrs Hope - la.hope@monmouthschool.org