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The Provision of Courses in Computer Science in Upper

Second Level Education Internationally

21st February, 2017Presented by: Mr. Neil Keane

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Overview Background to the Study

Main Findings Challenges in the Field Course Content & Learning Outcomes Nature of the Subject Teacher Professional Development

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Rationale & Motivations Educational Social & Cultural Economic

Challenges in the Field

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Clarity in Terminology Confusion Illusion Lack of Identity

Challenges in the Field

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Computer Science “referring to the scientific discipline of Computer Science, covering principles such as algorithms, data structures, programming, systems architecture, design, problem solving etc..”

Information Technology “should be understood to mean the assembly, deployment, and configuration of digital systems to meet user needs for particular purposes”

Digital Literacy “should be understood to mean the basic skill or ability to use a computer confidently, safely and effectively, including: the ability to use office software such as word processors, email and presentation software, the ability to create and edit images, audio and video, and the ability to use a web browser and internet search engines”

(Furber, 2012)

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Computer Science Substantive course content Re-emphasis on revision Focus on Computer Science as a

discipline and away from computing ‘use as a tool’

Course Content & Learning Outcomes

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Programming Central component Interweaving of theory & practice Coding – engaging & active learning Problem Solving & Computational

Thinking

Course Content & Learning Outcomes

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Programming Methods & Tools

Course Content & Learning Outcomes

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Nature of the Subject

Participation Offered as an elective subject without

strict pre-requisite studies Rates are low but growing in many

instances Female participation rates are low

(with the exception of Israel ) Girls tend to achieve better grades

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Assessment Leading to national qualification Combination written exams & course

work

Nature of the Subject

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Teacher Professional Development

Central Role of Teachers Pre-Service training In-Service training

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Teacher Professional Development

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Summary Strong rationale for adoption

internationally Extensive & largely agreed body

Computer Science content available Assessment combination of written

examination and course work. Implementation challenges Central role of teachers

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Thank You