computer education

course details standard grade

(Correct at March 2005)

Courses Offered

Standard Grade Computing Studies (Revised)
 

Course Content

"The most interesting - and best paid - opportunities in the future are open to those who really know about computing software and information Systems."  (Edinburgh University, November 2004).

By its very nature, Computing immerses pupils in all the uses of the latest technology.  Through a careful study of:

• The business use of computers.
• Automated systems – including computer controlled equipment and robotics.
• Computer systems.
• Computer programming, using Visual Basic, and,
• Integrated packages, desk top publishing, graphics, multimedia and the Internet - using a variety of industry standard software and specialist application packages.
  

Pupils are equipped with the skills, knowledge and confidence to become successful in their chosen career.  Teaching involves whole class work, group discussion and, at times, individualised one-to-one.  There is both practical and written work.  Where appropriate, we use technology to teach about the technology.  Pupils are encouraged to always give of their very best.

Assessment

There are assessments at each stage to cover both the practical and written work.

The practical assessments go towards a folio of work. Pupils also do a project issued by the SQA for the folio. This folio gives the grade for Practical Abilities.

The practical work and projects undertaken encourage a methodical and organised approach to work and, at an early stage, highlight the importance of setting personal targets and meeting deadlines.  This is so useful for today's world and that of the future.

The final written exam gives the Knowledge and Understanding and Problem Solving Grades.

Additional Information

In today's world, computers are used in almost every kind of company and organisation and many people have a computer at home.  Computer technology is advancing at a rapid rate and developments continue to have a huge impact on industry and commerce.  This course is therefore likely to be very useful to pupils, whatever career they decide to follow.  Many pupils find that their Computing qualifications prove vital in securing places on courses to study not just Computing but also medicine, law, dentistry, psychology, management and zoology...to name but a few.

The Standard Grade course provides a base which will prepare pupils for further study (to Higher and beyond), for training or for work.  For University entrance, Computing counts as a science.

Computing is a demanding but immensely rewarding course.  It encourages clear, logical thought.  The main requirements for entry to this course are enthusiasm, an interest and a willingness to work.