Description
This IGCSE Computer Science Distance Learning Online Course is ideal for anyone wishing to gain a knowledge and understanding of this subject. Learners will apply their new found knowledge to develop computer based solutions to problems using algorithms and high-level programming language. You will also find this course extremely valuable if you are looking for a progression route for further training whilst employed.
Support
The course will be delivered online including Tutor Support for two years. All assignments are marked by one of our professional Tutors who will offer regular feedback and guide you through your course. Postal assignments cannot be accepted without prior permission from the tutor and you must have access to email in order to contact your Tutor.
Throughout your course, you'll have the support of a Tutor to guide you. Additionally, you can reach out to the Student Support Team for help with any other questions you may have. You can be assured that you will receive unlimited support for your home study course, so there is no need to struggle or feel isolated during your studies.
Assessment
The course contains a number of assignments which your tutor will mark and give you valuable feedback on. You will also have access to a range of online resources.
Students will be required to arrange and pay for their examinations at an approved centre when an examination forms part of the course. We can provide an extensive list of these centres for you.
Differences between Cambridge and Edexcel Exam boards.
Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSEs are international qualifications. Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSEs can be taken worldwide including the United Kingdom. Both exam boards offer a similar specification however different courses can have a different structure. Both the Cambridge and Edexcel courses are full International GCSE qualifications.
Fees
Course fees for payment in full include:
- Assessment and feedback on all assignments.
- Access to your personal Tutor via our online portal.
- Access to a range of online resources, student materials, assessments, assignments, eBooks etc
- Practice exam papers to prepare you for the real thing.
- Tutor references and predicted grades once a satisfactory amount of work has been completed.
- Help finding an exam centre for you to sit your exam
Cambridge (2022)
Cambridge Course Code(s):
IGCSE Computer Science (9-1): 0984
IGCSE Computer Science: 0478
(Please note, there is no difference in the course teachings for the two specifications, there only difference is the grade you will receive once you have taken the exams. 0984 is graded 9-1, 9 being the highest while 0478 is graded A* to G, A* being the highest.)
Cambridge Exams: June & November
Cambridge Study Hours: 130 Hours
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science helps learners develop an interest in computational thinking and an understanding of the principles of problem-solving using computers. They apply this understanding to create computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high-level programming language. Learners also develop a range of technical skills, and the ability to effectively test and evaluate computing solutions.
Studying Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science helps learners appreciate current and emerging computing technologies, the benefits of their use and recognise their potential risks. It provides an ideal foundation for progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level and is valuable for other areas of study and everyday life.
Specification for 2022 Modules
Section 1 Theory of computer science
Data representation
- Binary systems
- Hexadecimal
- Data storage
Communication and Internet technologies
- Data transmission
- Security aspects
- Internet principles of operation
Hardware and software
- Logic gates
- Computer architecture and the fetch-execute cycle
- Input devices
- Output devices
- Memory, storage devices and media
- Operating systems
- High- and low-level languages and their translators
Security
Ethics
Section 2 Practical problem- solving and programming
Algorithm design and problem solving
- Problem solving and design
- Pseudocode and flowcharts
Programming
- Programming concepts
- Data structures: arrays
Databases
- Define a single-table database from given data storage requirements
- Choose and specify suitable data types
- Choose a suitable primary key for a database table
- Perform a query-by-example from given search criteria
Exam Papers:
Paper 1: Theory
Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes
Availability: June and October
Assessment overview: Short-answer and structured questions. Questions will be based on section 1 of the subject content
75 marks
60% of grade
Paper 2: Problem- solving and programming
Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes
Availability: June and October
Assessment overview: Short-answer and structured questions. Questions will be based on section 2 of the subject content
50 marks
40% of grade
Please note that pre-release material is available for Paper 2 Problem-solving and Programming. This will be provided from the examination centre before the exams.
It is also reproduced in the question paper. Candidates must not bring any prepared material into the examination.
Edexcel
Edexcel Course Code(s): 4CP0
Edexcel Exams: June
Edexcel Study Hours: 130 hours
This IGCSE Computer Science Edexcel Course will help you to understand and apply fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. You will be able to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs. You will also gain an understanding of the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society. For this specification, grades 9-1 are available.
Edexcel Modules
Problem solving
- Algorithms
- Decomposition and abstraction
Programming
- Develop code
- Constructs
- Data types and structures
- Input/ output
- Operators
- Subprograms
Data
- Binary
- Data representation
- Data storage and compression
- Encryption
Computers
- Machines and computational modelling
- Hardware
- Logic
- Software
- Programming languages
Communication and the internet
- Networks
- Network security
- The internet and the world wide web
The bigger picture
- Emerging trends, issues and impact
Exam Papers
Paper 1:Principles of Computer Science
Written examination: 2 hours
Availability: June only
Assessment overview: The paper consists of multiple-choice, short open-response, open-response and extended open-response answer questions on all the topics.
80 marks
50% of the total international GCSE
Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking
Practical examination: 3 hours
Availability: June only
Assessment overview: The paper consists of multiple-choice, short open-response, open-response, extended- open response answer and task-based questions on the programming Language – Python
80 marks
50% of the total International GCSE
