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| 6th | 7th | |
|---|---|---|
| Higher |  |
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| AS Level | ||
| A Level |
Higher Computing provides a study of the operation and organisation of computer systems combined with a formal approach to the processes involved in the development of solutions to computing problems. The course aims to develop an understanding of computing concepts as well as a variety of skills which are applicable in a range of contexts and activities.
Entry requirements
Ideally a pupil should have gained a credit pass at Standard grade or minimum B at GCSE. However it has proved possible in the past for pupils to succeed in Higher Computing with no previous formal qualification in the subject. Any pupil who has gained good grades in other subjects, particularly English and Mathematics (though there is very little Maths in the course), and who is highly motivated may be able to manage this course successfully. Please note that much of the learning in the course and much of the assessment requires very careful reading and writing. A good command of English is therefore essential. Access to a computer outside school is essential. The computing department is equipped with PCs.
Components of Higher Computing
The course has TWO mandatory units:
Computer Systems |
Software Development
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There is ONE optional unit
Multimedia Technology – knowledge and understanding and practical and problem solving skills in relation to the development process for multimedia applications and the digital representation of graphic, sound and video data. |
AssessmentInternalEach Unit has internal assessments associated with it. Assessments will take two forms: multiple choice tests and practical work. Pupils must pass all these assessments in order to gain an overall award. ExternalThe course is also assessed externally. A written exam will constitute 70% of this element of assessment; the remaining 30% is based on practical coursework tasks. |
European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)The school is an accredited test centre for ECDL. |
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The Course
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Time commitment
All the teaching and testing is done in house. |
The componentsThe overall licence is obtained by gaining passes in the 7 modules: 1. basic concepts of information technology The EA pass rate for this examination is 90%. |
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The principles of computer organisation, knowledge and understanding of computer software and of the input, storage and output of data 
Understanding the software development process and environment and producing a solution to a problem using a software development environment..jpg)
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Sixths and Sevenths have the opportunity to begin work towards the European Computer Driving Licence - an international qualification in IT which is rapidly gaining in credence with a wide spectrum of employers and institutions. 
The course is taken one period a week for two terms. The work which pupils will have done in ICT in earlier years is a very sound grounding for this course.This page is: Edinburgh Academy / curriculum / computing/ higher.htm
