Computing
Purpose of study
A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
Aims
- can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation
- can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems
- can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
- are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.
Spiritual
Computing supports spiritual development by looking at how computing can bring rapid benefits to discussions and tolerance to an individual’s beliefs. However, children are also exposed to the limitations and abuse of the internet where they question and justify the aims, values and principles of their own and others’ belief systems.
Moral
Computing supports moral development by looking at how computing developments have had an impact on the environment as technology has meant that old ways of working have been changed to help the environment.
Social
Computing supports social development by completing of group work within lessons as well as practical tasks. Children are required to understand about social media and the advantages these sites have brought as well as the numerous problems such as cyber bullying.
Cultural
The development in technology has impacted different cultures and backgrounds in different ways. More developed countries are able to keep pace with the developments in technology whilst less developed ones can’t.