CPD taster: Introduction to primary computing

This is a CPD taster created to give teachers a better understanding of what to expect when joining one of our primary computing courses. Below you will find a video and a task for you to do in your own time. Once you have done the activity, book on to Introduction to primary computing (CP004).

The computing curriculum changed in 2014.  However, there are many questions around what the computing curriculum includes and how to go about teaching all the different elements. How do we teach computing with few or no devices? Where are the best resources and how do we adapt our teaching when misconceptions arise?

In this video Helen Cotton, Subject Matter Expert and Primary Lead, explains more. There is then a short task that gives a sample of the types of activities you will be guided through on this CPD course.

Task

To develop an understanding of the three strands of the curriculum, it is important to consider what kinds of activities might fit into each strand: Digital Literacy, Information Technology and Computer Science.

Sort the programme of study statements from Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 into the strand that you believe to be the best fit. There will be areas where there is some overlap. In these cases, you can add them into more than one column. When you have completed the task compare your sorting with page 7 of this computing guidance for primary school teachers.

KS1

1. Understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions 
2. Create and debug simple programs
3. Use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs
4. Use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content
5. Recognise common uses of information technology beyond school
6. Use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies.

KS2

1. Design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts
2. Use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
3. Use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs
4. Understand computer networks including the internet; how they can provide multiple services, such as the world wide web; and the opportunities they offer for communication and collaboration
5. Use search technologies effectively, appreciate how results are selected and ranked, and be discerning in evaluating digital content
6. Select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to design and create a range of programs, systems and content that accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information
7. Use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact.

In the summary video, Helen explains what you can expect from attending the Introduction to primary computing course.

Book your place on Introduction to primary computing (CP004).