Foundation knowledge of computer science for KS3 and GCSE (face to face)

CP226 Face to face course

For computer science teachers who are new or existing to the subject. This CPD covers the foundation subject knowledge required to teach the computing programme of study.

Algorithmic thinking Computer networks Computer systems Data & information Programming Key stage 3 Key stage 4 KS3 and GCSE subject knowledge certificate

Face to face course 6 hours

A high-quality computer science education equips students to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computer science forms the core of the computing national curriculum, a foundation subject and a vital aspect of a broad and balanced curriculum for all learners. If you’re new, moving towards or an existing teacher of Key Stage 3 / GCSE computer science, then this course will allow you to explore the foundation subject knowledge, required to teach computer science as part of the national curriculum. The sessions within this course are designed to give you the subject knowledge around key topics such as algorithms, data representation, hardware and programming, whilst also exploring useful and engaging strategies for delivering this content in the classroom.

Who is it for?

This course is for prospective teachers of Key Stage 3 / 4 computing who may be new to the subject, or who may have taught computing in earlier years.

Topics covered

01 Introduction & data representation – during this session you’ll learn about key hardware components inside the computer and how computers use binary, convert between binary and decimal values and how images are represented by a computer.
02 Algorithms – this session will explore what algorithms are and how they’re used in computing, you’ll begin creating your own flowchart algorithms and learn how several search and sort algorithms function.
03 Programming (Part 1) – learn the principle programming constructs required, including sequencing and selection, this session will begin using these constructs in a block based language.
04 Programming (Part 2) – take the next steps with your programming knowledge by learning about iteration, in this session you will learn how to program both condition and count controlled loops in a block based language.

How long is this course?

The course is approximately six hours in duration.

How will you learn?

Hands-on experiential learning with the collaborative support of your peers.

Expert advice and instruction on the computing curriculum and the expectations of a computer science teacher, from experienced classroom practitioners.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Understand why computers use binary and be able to convert between binary and decimal values
Understand what an algorithm is and how to represent them by using flowcharts
Be able to explain how search and sort algorithms work
Be able to use a block based programming language using constructs sequencing, selection and iteration

This course is part of the KS3 and GCSE Computer Science subject knowledge certificate

Key stage 3 and GCSE Computer Science certificate

Our certificate is designed to help you develop or refresh your computer science subject knowledge.

Find out more

Dates coming soon

Contact your local Computing Hub for more information

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This course is from the National Centre for Computing Education and is delivered by STEM Learning.

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