Overview

An understanding of algorithms is vital for success in GCSE computer science. Students need to know how algorithms are designed to solve a problem, and how these designs are represented to other humans.

Improve your knowledge of algorithms to the level appropriate for GCSE teaching. Become confident in using the key building blocks of sequence, selection and iteration, and learn to apply algorithmic thinking. See what’s expected for GCSE examinations by different awarding bodies, and understand how to construct or trace pseudocode and flowchart representations of algorithms.

Book now and you will be automatically registered for the scheduled sessions for the course. Remote CPD courses have live, facilitator-led sessions and are not available for instant access.

Who is it for?

This course is for current or prospective teachers of GCSE computer science with some understanding of computer science fundamentals.

Prior knowledge

You’ll need to know some basic concepts and terminology to access this GCSE-level subject knowledge enhancement. If you are entirely new to computer science, we recommend first participating in our one-day course, An introduction to algorithms, programming and data in GCSE computer science.

What does it cost?

This course is fully funded for participants from maintained schools in England. If you are from an independent school or from an organisation outside England, then the course fee is £220.

Course units

1. Core concepts – get to grips with the fundamentals of algorithms by exploring sequencing, selection, iteration.
2. Implementing core concepts – examine how the core concepts can be implemented within an algorithm.
3. Flowcharts - learn how to read and write flowcharts, which can be used to represent algorithms.
4. Creating your own flowchart algorithm – decompose and create your own algorithms represented as flowcharts.
5. Pseudocode – learn how to read and write pseudocode, and use these to represent a range of algorithms.

How will you learn?

Scheduled live, interactive online sessions led by an experienced practitioner. Flexible facilitator-supported, participant-led sessions, involving deep exploration of the subject content.

How long is the course?

This course is approximately 5 hours in duration, split across two days.

Outcomes

Learning outcomes

• Learn the key building blocks of algorithms to be executed using a computer.
• Analyse problems and design algorithmic solutions.
• Represent algorithms using pseudocode and flowcharts.
• Gain confidence in tracing and improving algorithms.
• Take away activities and teaching practice to use in your classroom.

Booking

To book a place on this course and check fees and bursaries applicable to your school, please go to: https://ncce.stem.org.uk/cpd/478570/representing-a...

Presenter Profile

Peter Marshman in his role as Head of Computer Science and ICT at Leighton Park School has delivered a vast range CPD to primary, secondary and trainee teachers as a CAS Master Teacher. These courses focus on creative and innovative approaches, combined with an emphasis on unplugged and kinaesthetic activities. Peter is also an advisor to the Royal Society on Computing and Digital Learning in schools, primarily around the topics of gender and diversity.

Cost: This course is fully funded for participants from maintained schools in England. If you are from an independent school or from an organisation outside England, then the course fee is £220.