Foundation knowledge of KS3/4 computer science: for non-specialists and supply teachers - residential CH290 / G01
Summary
Are you a returning, supply or trainee teacher, stepping into the classroom to teach KS3 or KS4 computing? This two day residential course aims to raise your subject knowledge, focused around the key topics of algorithms and programming, ahead of stepping into the classroom.
An understanding of algorithms is vital for success at KS3 / 4. Students need to know how algorithms are designed to solve a problem, and how these designs are represented to other humans. During day 1 you’ll learn how to read and write algorithms using flowcharts and pseudocode. During day 2, you’ll begin exploring how computer programs are constructed. You’ll learn about the three main programming constructs, sequencing, selection and iteration; including how these can be used to develop a variety of programming solutions.
Completing this pathway will contribute towards recognised certification through the Computer Science Accelerator programme. You'll be supported along the way by experienced teaching professionals, among a group of your peers.
You'll participate in live face-to-face CPD, with the opportunity to access on-demand online CPD. You'll take-away ready-to-use and successful teaching approaches from experienced teachers, supported by the latest research and evidence.
Over the two days, you’ll explore in detail how both algorithms and computer programs are constructed, linked to the GCSE specifications, you’ll complete the following courses:
- Representing algorithms using flowcharts and pseudocode
- Python programming constructs: sequencing, selection and iteration
Residential information:
Bursaries are available upon completion of this course. No overnight accommodation is included within this course booking, however, we do highly recommend using the bursary payments to cover accommodation costs.
Who is it for?
This is an ideal introduction for supply teachers who would like to be able to offer additional subjects to the schools they support, non-specialist teachers and trainees from any subject background and those who are looking to return to teaching after a time away from the classroom.
No prior experience or knowledge of computing is expected before attending this course. It is advised that you become familiar with the National Curriculum in Computing before participating.
What topics are covered?
- Representing algorithms using flowcharts and pseudocode – during this course you’ll learn how to read and write your own algorithms using both flowcharts and pseudocode.
- Python programming constructs: sequencing, selection & iteration – during this course you learn how to program using the text based programming language, Python. You’ll learn how to use programming constructs sequencing, selection and iteration.
How will you learn?
Hands-on experiential learning with the collaborative support of your peers. Expert advice and instruction on the GCSE curriculum and the expectations of a computer science teacher, from experienced classroom practitioners.
How long is this course?
You’ll complete two courses from the Computer Science Accelerator programme, totalling approximately 10 hours, split across two days.
Online courses are also available free of charge, these are available to complete before, alongside or after the face to face courses.
Who is the course leader?
Outcomes
By the end of this CPD package you will:
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Develop some basic program constructs using variables, handling user input and output to the screen
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Follow the flow of a program, identifying values held in variables at different stages of execution
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Create and control indefinite loop structures in programs
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Become familiar with the Python programming language
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Learn the key building blocks of algorithms to be executed using a computer
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Represent algorithms using pseudocode and flowcharts
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Explore the efficiency of different search and sort algorithms
Sessions
| Date | Time | Location | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Foundation knowledge of KS3/4 computer science: for non-specialists and supply teachers | 30 May 2022 | 09:00-15:30 | Lintott Control Systems Ltd |
| 2 Foundation knowledge of KS3/4 computer science: for non-specialists and supply teachers | 31 May 2022 | 09:00-15:30 | Lintott Control Systems Ltd |
Actions
Fees & Subsidies
Included in your CPD subscription
If the course you would like to attend is fully booked, please contact enquiries@stem.org.uk to express your interest in being added to a waiting list. We will contact you when the course is due to run again.
Are you a state-funded Special School or PRU unit in England? You may be eligible for reduced course fees and even subsidies. Get in touch to check your eligibility and book your place directly. You can see our fees and subsidy information here.
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