Leaving Certificate Computer Science aims to develop and foster the learner’s creativity and problem solving, along with their ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Students will apply the fundamental practices and concepts of computer science and develop an appreciation of the diverse role of computing technology in society and the environment in which they live. Studying computer science will nurture students’ interests and passions and empower them to engage confidently and actively with the world.

Objectives

The objectives of Leaving Certificate Computer Science are to enable students to:

• develop an understanding of how computing technology presents new ways to address problems; and to use computational thinking to analyse problems and to design, develop and evaluate solutions
• read, write, test, and modify computer programs
• develop an understanding of how computers work; the component parts of computer systems and how they interrelate, including software, data, hardware, communications, and users
• appreciate the ethical and social implications relating to the use of computing technology and information and identify the impact of technology on personal life and society
• understand how information technology has changed over time and the effects these changes may have on education, the workforce, and society
• evaluate the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness, comprehensiveness, and bias of online information sources
• work independently and collaboratively, communicate effectively, and become responsible, competent, confident, reflective, and creative users of computing technology.