Computing

Examination Board: OCR (Website)

Why study Computing?

Computing as a pure academic subject is quite a small department at Welbeck with just one member of staff. It is a subject with relevance to all students regardless of which degree they study, or career path they choose to follow. Everyone arriving at Welbeck will have experience of using computers and the course will look to build on this, you will not play computer games but you should gain the skills to program your own games. Though not essential, a GCSE/GNVQ or equivalent in ICT will provide a sound background to studying this subject.

By studying A-level computing you will gain the confidence and skills to develop your own IT solutions to problems and understand the principles behind some of the advanced IT systems you will go to use in your future careers. The course does cover the use of standard applications such as databases and spreadsheets, with the emphasis being on how they are used to solve business problems.

The difference between computing and ICT is that a certain amount of pure computing theory and programming techniques will be studied. The subject is closer to electronics/design/maths than GCSE ICT. The main new skill that students need to develop is computer programming; this forms the basis of large parts of the course. Previous programming experience would be useful, it does not matter what programming language you may have used. During the course the languages used are Visual Basic.net, Visual Basic for Applications and some HTML & prolog. Do not worry if you have not programmed, before, as long as you have sound mathematical skills you will soon become proficient. If you want to get ahead download the software from the Microsoft website and use the videos to get yourself started. (See the hyperlinks below).

The teaching of the course is evenly split between theory lessons and practical computer work. The syllabus to be followed (OCR A-level Computing) is modular; the syllabus has changed for teaching from September 2008.