Computing Subject Knowledge Enhancement

Develop subject knowledge in computing and prepare to teach the subject effectively to learners aged 11-16 on this flexible free enhancement course for those with an offer of a place on our PGCE in Secondary Computer Science and IT.

Overview

Course length:	8-28 weeks full-time
Start dates:	January 2024 February 2024 March 2024 April 2024 May 2024 July 2024
Location:	Edge Hill University and Online study
Subject(s):	Education and Teaching
Faculty:	Education
Department:	Secondary and Further Education

Three students gathered round a laptop study a spreadsheet.

If you have applied to study on the PGCE Secondary Computer Science and Information Technology with QTS (11-16) at Edge Hill University and require enhancement of your subject knowledge, then this course could be for you.

The aim of the course is to develop your subject knowledge in computing to prepare you to teach the conceptual and applied aspects of the subject effectively, with competence, enthusiasm and confidence, to learners aged 11-16 years.

Different programmes are available and the most suitable structure for you will depend on whether you studied a degree in a computer science discipline and have relevant industrial experience. The course structure and length will be flexible to reflect the needs of each individual trainee.

The programme has six intakes per year. These include an 8-week course starting in July, a 16-week course starting in April, and a 28-week course starting in January.

What you'll study

If your degree is in a subject which is not predominantly related to Computing and/or Computer Science, and you wish to train as teacher of Computing then this course will be suitable for you prior to a Secondary Computing PGCE. It is designed for applicants without a breadth and depth of Computer Science in their degree who may need to improve their subject knowledge as a condition of entry to the PGCE. The length of the course depends on your qualifications and experience and will be discussed as part of the interview process.

The course is designed to address subject knowledge gaps in the following areas with a particular focus on understanding algorithms and programming:

Interpreting and writing algorithms
Programming in a variety of languages including Python
Systems testing
Data encoding and representation
Number systems
Computer systems and architecture
Relational databases
Computer networks
Computing legislation

How you'll study

The course length will be determined by your prior subject knowledge on application / interview. The course is divided into individual units, each requiring 50 hours of learning time, normally within a space of two weeks. This learning is predominantly online with some campus sessions. You will be expected to engage in substantial supported self-study.

You can expect to receive your timetable at enrolment. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day or evening of the week.

How you'll be assessed

There are no formal examinations. You will build a portfolio from directed activities.

Entry criteria

Entry requirements

You may apply for the course if you have been offered a place on the PGCE Secondary Computer Science and Information Technology with QTS (11-16) at Edge Hill University.

Completion of this subject knowledge enhancement course may form part of your offer conditions for a place on the PGCE Secondary Computer Science and Information Technology with QTS (11-16). Please note, however, that completion of this subject knowledge enhancement course does not necessarily qualify you for a place on the PGCE unless this is made clear at the time the offer is made. This will be discussed with you if you are called for an interview.

How to apply

There is an online application process for this course.

Apply for all 2023 intake dates

Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

Facilities

Housed in a state-of-the-art £9million building, the Faculty of Education enjoys a stunning setting from both its lakeside and piazza buildings.

Facilities in the lakeside building include a 300-seat lecture theatre, five well-equipped ICT suites, and 18 teaching rooms complete with the latest technology. The lakeside building is also home to a popular vegan and vegetarian cafe where students can meet to socialise and discuss their studies.

The nearby piazza building offers modern facilities including a lecture theatre and a number of seminar rooms.