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Computing for Educators
Higher Diploma in Science
Course Details
Course Code | LY_IEDUC_G |
---|---|
Level | 8 |
Duration | Flexible |
Credits | 60 |
Method of Delivery | Blended |
Campus Locations |
Donegal – Letterkenny
Galway City – Dublin Road |
Mode of Delivery | Part Time |
Course Overview
This unique course allows educators to engage with material that will provide them with confidence and technical skills to deliver ICT in schools for the 21st Century. The certificates have been carefully crafted to ensure that educators will be given opportunity to gain proficiency and to derive tangible elements for their own classrooms.
Each certificate is worth 10 ECT credits and is at Level 8. Educators can take as many or as few of the certificates are they wish but completing 6 certificates will enable the participant to convert their 60 credits into a Higher Diploma in Computing for Educators.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Introduction to Coding with Animation and GamesThis module will seek to develop the learners' knowledge of coding principles by using a visual programming environment to create animations and games. This will enable them to teach visual coding at primary and post-primary level. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise the rationale and remit of coding at primary and post-primary level. |
10 | Elective |
1 |
Coding with SyntaxThe study of programming and the development of programming competencies are central to learning computer science. This module provides learners with the opportunity to further enhance their knowledge of the core concepts of abstraction, decomposition and algorithmic development. In addition, students will develop the necessary technical competencies required to apply these concepts using a modern programming language to solve non-trivial problems and evaluate their solutions. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply computational thinking to design algorithmic solutions for non-trivial problems. |
10 | Elective |
1 |
Computer SystemsTo provide the learner with a general description of the key hardware components of a generic computer system and how these components interact to produce a functioning computer. To introduce network technologies and standards in order to build data networks. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise the operations that make up the fundamental workings of the computer. |
10 | Elective |
1 |
Web Development & HCIThe learner will use HTML, CSS, and web authoring software to develop standards-compliant web sites. Learners will learn about information architecture, interface design, usability and accessibility and they will apply these techniques when developing websites. Learning Outcomes 1. Outline the steps involved in the web site development |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Block Based Mobile Applications DevelopmentThis module will teach students to design and develop simple Mobile Apps via a web based app builder. The student will learn key coding concepts through visual programming, while demonstrating the ability to solve problems using a mobile methodology incorporating sensors and interacting with on-board applications. Learning Outcomes 1. Uti lise the fundamentals of programming in an everyday situation . |
10 | Elective |
2 |
RoboticsComputer-controlled models are a useful aid in teaching introductory programming. Some of the latest trends includes LEGO Mindstorm Robots, Raspberry Pi's and Arduino kits. Physical and simulated models provide an interesting alternative to teaching coding using a traditional pedagogy. This module aims to enhance and support the work of the teacher by utilising a pedagogy that uses robots and other simple hardware devices. The main material covered in the module will seek to develop the learners' knowledge as it pertains to teaching computer coding at primary and post-primary level. Learning Outcomes 1. Assemble a simple robot and investigate how it can be used to teach problem solving. |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Digital CitizenshipThis module will guide learners to become a digital citizen that understands the rights and responsibilities of inhabiting cyberspace. The main material covered in the module will seek to develop the learners' knowledge as it pertains to implementing and instilling digital citizenship at primary and post-primary level. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop an understanding of relevant and pertinent laws. |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Database TechnologyThis module will allow the learner to appreciate and examine the differing database environments and develop a design framework for relational database development. This module provides a practical led approach to fully understand the database design process and the extraction of data from the database using SQL. Learning Outcomes 1. Give an appraisal of the database environment. |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Data ScienceData Science includes obtaining, managing, analysing and visualising data to understand and extract knowledge. This module will provide the learner with the skills to demonstrate the effective use of statistical methods within a data science project. It will introduce the fundamental elements of a data science project, and how each element facilitates the data science lifecycle. The learner will then be given the opportunity to practice their knowledge through a real-life data science project which will be designed in order to meet identified business requirements. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify data categories and how data can be processed to solve a problem. |
10 | Elective |
3 |
Technology in the Primary ClassroomThis module will introduce the learner to a range of apps and interactive media for use in the primary school classroom. Learners will be provided an opportunity for exploration of these apps across curriculum areas and will appraise them in terms of their own contextual application. Learners will be provided with knowledge regarding accessibility applications to make their content more inclusive. They will also explore different methods of creating interactive and engaging formative assessment using emerging technologies. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and demonstrate effective use of software for inclusion and accessibility |
10 | Elective |
3 |
Computer Science UnpluggedThis module will introduce students to the concept of teaching Computer Science in an engaging and meaningful way, using a formal pedagogical strategy. Students will learn how computational thinking can be taught in a way that allows children to discover answers for themselves using a constructivist approach, without the need for specialised equipment. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop an understanding of how computing technology presents new ways to address problems. |
10 | Elective |
3 |
Delivering Applied Learning TasksThis module will seek to prepare learners to deliver the Applied Learning Tasks on the Leaving Certificate Computer Science course. Learning Outcomes 1. Deliver an Applied Learning Task on Interactive Information Systems |
10 | Elective |
3 |
Project ManagementThis module is designed to teach the essential skills students need to make effective contributions and to have an immediate impact on the accomplishment of projects in which they are involved. Students will learn techniques required to plan, manage and control projects Learning Outcomes 1. Compare and contrast different approaches to project management. |
10 | Elective |
3 |
Software EngineeringSoftware engineering is an engineering discipline which is concerned with all aspects of software production, it is concerned with theories, methods and tools for professional software development. This module builds on what learners have already covered in previous modules and teaches the discipline of software engineering. Learners will evaluate the engineering methods, processes, techniques and measurements which are part of software engineering. Learning Outcomes 1. Compare and contrast software process models and select a suitable software process model for use on a software project. |
10 | Elective |
Recommended Study Hours per week
Examination and Assessment
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
A full Level 8 qualification or equivalent or B.Ed. Preference will be given to professionals working in the education sector.
Further Information
Who Should Apply?
This programme is designed for individuals who have an interest in both education and computing, and who want to develop skills in these fields to pursue a career as an educator in computing, information technology, or related disciplines. Candidates who might be well-suited include teachers or educators, graduates with a non-computing bachelor’s degree, professionals with industry experience and career changers
Contact Information
Department of Computing
Department Administration: +353 (0)74 9186351
Dr Gary Cullen
Lecturer
E: gary.cullen@atu.ie
T: +353 (0)74 9186337
Computing