New to computing pathway for music, art and media teachers - face to face CP273
Summary
- Introduction to algorithms, programming data
- Introduction to computer systems, networking and security
- Python programming constructs: sequencing, selection and iteration
Who is it for?
This course is intended for non-specialist music, art or media teachers who are new to computing, wanting to learn more about the knowledge required to deliver the computing curriculum.
What topics are covered?
By following this pathway, you’ll complete two of the following courses, you can find out which courses by selecting a course date:
- Introduction to algorithms, programming data (CP428) – during this course you’ll explore how algorithms are designed and how programs are written to provide clear instructions to machines and how to read and write algorithms using flowcharts and pseudocode. You’ll explore how to create simple block-based computer programs and discover how to implement them using the Python programming language. Finally, you’ll learn about the binary system used by computers to store and process data, and how to convert to and from the familiar denary system of numbers zero to nine.
- Introduction to computer systems, networking and security (CP438) – during this course you’ll learn about the different components of computer hardware, including devices not instantly recognisable as computers. The key components for input, processing, storage and output will be covered, and you’ll learn about the binary data that flows around and between computers. You’ll learn about the technologies required to network computer systems together so they can communicate and share data. You’ll also deepen your knowledge of some of the security risks that are commonly heard about in the daily news, which your students need to be aware of to be safe and responsible web citizens.
- Python programming constructs: sequencing, selection and iteration (CP423) – during this course you’ll develop your foundational knowledge around the Python language. Learn how to write code to input, process and output data, and how to manipulate data stored in variables. Using the building blocks of sequence, selection and iteration you’ll begin to understand how programs are constructed to perform a multitude of simple and more complex tasks.
How will you learn?
Hands-on experiential learning with the collaborative support of your peers.Expert advice and instruction on the GCSE curriculum and the expectations of a computer science teacher, from experienced classroom practitioners.
How long is the course?
By following this pathway you’ll complete two courses from the Computer Science Accelerator programme, totalling approximately 10 hours, split across multiple days.This course is delivered as part of the National Centre for Computing Education.
Outcomes
Participants will:
Introduction to algorithms, programming data:
- Learn about algorithms, how they are usually represented, and some of their most common applications
- Recognise and use the basic building blocks of programming: sequence, selection and repetition
- Understand how binary, denary and hexadecimal are used to represent numbers, and why this is important for computer science
Introduction to computer systems, networking and security:
- Learn how data is inputted into a computer, how it is processed, stored and output in a useful form
- Develop a basic understanding of local and global computer networks
- Become knowledgeable and confident in using common cybersecurity terms
Python programming constructs: sequencing, selection and iteration:
- Develop some basic program constructs using variables, handling user input and output to the screen
- Follow the flow of a program, identifying values held in variables at different stages of execution
- Create and control indefinite loop structures in programs