Computing

What is Computing and how do we teach it?

INTENT

At Darnhall, we recognise the important role that technology plays in our children’s lives. We aim to equip our pupils with the Computing skills to allow them to confidently access a wide range of technologies, both inside and outside of the classroom, as well as preparing them to become responsible participants in the online world.

The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming.

Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology.

IMPLEMENTATION

We use the Teach Computing scheme of work which covers learning goals from Year 1 up to Year 6.

There are ten strands of our Computing curriculum:

?  Algorithms — Be able to comprehend, design, create, and evaluate algorithms

?  Computer networks — Understand how networks can be used to retrieve and share information, and how they come with associated risks

 ?  Computer systems — Understand what a computer is, and  how its constituent parts function together as a whole

?  Creating media — Select and create a range of media  including text, images, sounds, and video

?  Data and information — Understand how data is stored,  organised, and used to represent real-world artefacts  and scenarios ?  Design and development — Understand the activities  involved in planning, creating, and evaluating  computing artefacts

?  Effective use of tools — Use software tools to support  computing work

?  Impact of technology — Understand how individuals,  systems, and society as a whole interact with  computer systems

 ?  Programming — Create software to allow computers  to solve problems

?  Safety and security — Understand risks when using  technology, and how to protect individuals and systems

Computing in EYFS

In Nursery and Reception, we begin to make links to Computing through utilising different technology in the classroom including:

• taking a photograph with a camera or tablet
• searching for information on the internet
• playing games on the interactive whiteboard
• utilising different educational apps on the tablets
• using a Beebot
• watching a video clip
• listening to music

Allowing children the opportunity to explore technology in this way, means that not only will they develop a familiarity with equipment and vocabulary but they will have a strong start for Key Stage 1 Computing and all that it demands.

IMPACT

With the Teach Computing curriculum, our children build up skills over each half term to create a final project. This could range anywhere from an Excel spreadsheet, to a podcast, to an algorithm to program an educational game! Progress of our computing curriculum is demonstrated through outcomes and the record of coverage in the process of achieving these outcomes We encourage our children to enjoy and value the technology they use in their lives, whilst finding a balance to ensure their health and wellbeing. 

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