Computer Science

Introductory Video from Mrs. Carey
Computer Science Video
Course Details
OCR A Level Computer Science

What kind of student would enjoy this course?

If you are mathematically or scientifically minded then an A-Level in Computer Science could be for you. You do need to be an engineer by disposition as solving problems form a significant part of the course. If you have a GCSE in Computer Science, or substantial coding experience, then you will be well placed to start this course.

What will I study?

Computer systems: The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices. Software and software development. Exchanging data. Data types, data structures and algorithms. Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues.

Algorithms and Programming: Elements of computational thinking -what is meant by computational thinking. Problem solving and programming – how computers are used to solve problems and programs can be written to solve them. Algorithms – the use of algorithms to describe problems and standard algorithms.

Programming project: Candidates and/or centres select their own user-driven problem of an appropriate size and complexity to solve. This will enable them to demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the Assessment Objectives.

What skills will I learn?

An understanding of and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science including; abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. The ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems including writing programs to do so. The capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. The capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science. Mathematical skills. The ability to articulate the individual (moral), social (ethical), legal and cultural opportunities and risks of digital technology.

What could I do at the end of my course?

Put simply, these are the skills that people use in every walk of life in the Information Age. This course will provide you with skills which will give you an edge in whatever field you move into.