The IB computer science course is a rigorous and practical problem-solving discipline. Features and benefits of the curriculum and assessment of are as follows:
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
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Two course levels are offered; standard level (SL) and higher level (HL). |
Computer science candidates are not limited by a defined study level so can opt for this course in the same way as their other subjects. |
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Computational thinking lies at the heart of the course and is integrated with other topics. This will be supported by practical activities including programming. |
Candidates will learn programming skills as a critical element of developing higher-level skills applicable to virtually all fields of study. |
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Four course options are available; databases, modelling and simulation, web science, object oriented programming |
These options will allow a particular subject of interest to be studied as defined by the subject teacher |
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Algorithmic thinking will only be externally assessed at the level of pseudo-code. |
This means the external assessment will focus on the student’s algorithmic thinking, not on their mastery of the syntax of a particular programming language. |
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Practical programming experience will be an essential element of developing higher-level thinking skills; this may be assessed as a part of the internal assessment. There is no designated language. |
This allows teachers to select the programming language(s) which they feel are most appropriate for teaching the practical elements of the course |
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A new component has been introduced (HL only) that is linked to the annually issued case study, to expand students’ knowledge of a new subject-related topic through investigative study. |
This will allow students to investigate in greater depth current issues in computer science that are not included in the syllabus. |
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The internal assessment has changed from a being based on a Java-related task to a more open problem-solving exercise. |
This will expand the choice of programming languages and better support the development of learners who match the IB learner profile |
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All computer science students will work with other students of group 4 subjects (physics, chemistry, biology and design technology). |
Collaborative working will be emphasized through combined activity with like-minded students. |