Computing - A Level
Computing is a logical subject which follows its own logic – computational thinking. Computer Science involves questions that have the potential to change how we view the world: for example, in the future we may be computing with DNA or with computer circuits made of genes. Does this mean that in some way the natural world can be said to ‘compute’?
The course encompasses a range of approaches from abstract thinking, general problem-solving, and algorithmic, mathematical, scientific and engineering-based thinking. It is an excellent foundation for understanding both how computers work and how computational reasoning can help us solve the challenges facing the world today.
Although the course uses information and communications technology, it is almost entirely different from A Level ICT in its emphasis and subject content. Computing is absolutely fascinating.
What will I study in Computing?
AS Units 1 and 2
Programming and Problem Solving. Computing starts by investigating how programmers solve problems – thus you will learn to create algorithms, which are methods of solving them. You will learn how to write your own structured computer programs. Writing a program follows a standard method of systems analysis, which looks at how a system is designed and developed. But ‘coding’ is just part of the subject because underlying everything in a computer are the on-off switches that allow computers and programmes to work – thus you will study the binary number system. How can we represent any item of information simply using ones and zeros?
Computers, Programs and the Internet. The logic of computing is fundamental to everything that happens inside a computer, therefore you will examine how computers use numbers and logic (for example, logic gates and boolean algebra) as well as the hardware components that store and manipulate this information. The way computers communicate with each other is becoming critical to human society and so the course examines the structure of the internet, networking protocols and the consequences of uses of computing more generally.
A2 Units 3 and 4
Programming, Databases and Networking. You will investigate algorithmic complexity, asking the question – how complex is an algorithm relative to the problem it solves? What makes an algorithm efficient in terms of time and space? Why is it that some problems cannot be solved? We will consider programming paradigms and techniques, how databases and networking work together and how they affect our lives Computing Project. You will research and analyse a problem, then design and build a computing solution. This will involve using a high-level programming language to solve problems such as an organisation's data-processing, a scientific or mathematical puzzle, a simulation, a computer-aided learning system or how to control a robot.
How will I be assessed?
The course is assessed by an on-screen examination and a written paper in the AS year. In the A2 year there is a computing project and a written examination.
Do I need to have studied Computing before?
No, but you should have a keen interest in technical and mathematical phenomena related to computing. The subject differs considerably from ICT, although an ICT GCSE and a B grade minimum in Mathematics would be a good foundation.
Who will teach me?
Mohammad Arif completed a Bachelors degree in Computer Science at the Institute of Leadership and Management in Lahore and an MSc in Business Information Technology at Middlesex University, London. He worked in the IT industry in Saudi Arabia for five years and has been teaching ICT in schools in the UK for the past four years where he has applied his practical knowledge and enthusiastic approach to help his students achieve very good exam results.
Jem Barton-Hanson read Law at Queens' College Cambridge and joined Lansdowne in 1993 while taking bar examinations. Since 1993 he has taught a combination of Law, Information Technology and Computing.
Which subjects complement Computing?
Computing has important links with academic disciplines such as Mathematics, Philosophy, Psychology and Physics.
Which careers can Computing lead to?
Computing is suitable for students planning to enter a wide range of careers including software development, engineering, scientific disciplines, business and project management.