Computing GCE A Level

Computing GCE A Level

Qualification: AS/A2 - 2 year course

Course type: Level 3 (advanced)

Entry requirements:
4 x GCSE B grades

A minimum grade C in Mathematics
Head of Department: Mrs Sara Rowell

Course assessment:
In the first year you will be assessed as follows:

Unit 1: A 2 hour on-screen exam consisting of short answer questions.

Pre-release material (a skeleton program and test data) will be published in advance of the examination to assist with the programming questions

Unit 2: A 1 hour written paper (short answer and structured questions)

In the second year the assessment consists of:

Unit 3: A 2.5 hour written paper consisting of short answer and extended answer questions

Unit 4: Centre assessed programming project for a real end-user

What can this course offer me?
Computing requires and develops logical thinking, especially when analysing, designing and implementing the practical coursework projects. It is a rapidly developing area that influences all aspects of life. The increasing use of computers in design, particularly for the Internet and e-commerce, has created a whole new area where the knowledge gained from this course can be applied.
Computing concerns the design and construction of computer systems and their use in problem solving. The role of computers in society are also studied.
In 2008 at A2 level there was a 100% pass rate. Many of our students have progressed to courses involving animation and graphics, software engineering and Computer Science. In recent years we have seen students study computing related subjects at Oxford and one of our past students has recently gained a senior position with a well-known computer games manufacturer.

What will I learn?
You will develop skills in programming, database and website design. Computing will give you the knowledge needed to analyse and design software solutions to real-life problems. Your tutors use varied teaching methods and learning styles to ensure you master both theory and practice: you will a variety of simulation programs developed by the department which will reinforce your learning. We follow the AQA Computing AS/A2 specification and units covered are:

AS Year 1

Unit 1 - Problem Solving, Programming, Data Representation and Practical Exercise

Unit 2 - The Computer Components, The Stored Program Concept and The Internet

A2 Year 2

Unit 3 - Problem Solving, Programming, Operating Systems, Databases and Networking

Unit 4 - The Practical project

What Makes a good Computing student?
Students should demonstrate a keen interest in technological and social issues such as introducing ID cards with biometric data. Students who enjoy problem solving from practical experience do extremely well in Computing.

Which other courses link well with this subject?
Computing acts as a natural link or bridge to almost all other subjects. It combines well with sciences such Mathematics, Physics and Electronics and indeed with most other subjects which have a logical basis.

Future Opportunities
Computing helps you develop your analytical skills and provides you with many transferable skills that will be of use in almost all professions. Many students go on to university to study Computing or a related subject. Note that A-level mathematics is required for some courses such as Computer Science. As we live in an ever-changing world you will be equipped to examine any complex issue and break it down into its constituent parts in order to investigate it and offer solutions to problems.

The growth of the Internet and the needs of large and small organisations mean that the demand for well-qualified personnel continues to outstrip supply. Software engineering, programming, web page design and systems analysis form the core destinations for graduates.

Is there anything else I need to know?
Computing students need to have good time management skills, as there are two modules (one in each year) assessed through practical coursework.