IBDP Computer Science
Group 4 | Computer Science
| 🎓 Level | HL & SL |
|---|---|
| ⏱ Hours | 150 (SL) or 240 (HL) |
| 📚 Prerequisite | None |
| ℹ️ IB Course Information | Link (HL) Link (SL) |
What will I learn?
Computer Science develops an understanding of the fundamental concepts of computational thinking as well as a knowledge of how computers and other digital devices operate. It is designed primarily for students who are interested in the technical aspects of computing.
While the skills and activities of Computer Science are common to students at both SL and HL, students at HL are required to study additional topics in the core, a case study and also extension material of a more demanding nature in the option chosen. The distinction between SL and HL is therefore one of both breadth and depth.
Students at SL and HL in Computer Science study a common core consisting of:
- four topics (system fundamentals; computer organisation; networks; and computational thinking, problem-solving and programming)
- one option (chosen from databases; modelling and simulation; web science; or object-oriented programming)
- one piece of internally assessed work, which includes a computational solution.
The HL course has three additional elements:
- three further topics (abstract data structures; resource management; control)
- additional and more demanding content for the option selected
- an additional externally assessed component based on a pre-seen case study of an organisation or scenario; this requires students to research various aspects of the subject—which may include new technical concepts and additional subject content—in greater depth.
Why should I consider this course?
Computer Science is an incredibly useful course for anyone wanting to make a career out of Software Engineering, but more importantly it's useful to anyone wishing to support further studies. Mathematics, Engineering, Science, and Medicine aspirations will all be supported with the ability to build your own software tools.
Computer Science manages to blend a rare combination of analytical approaches to problem solving with creativity and the ability to make your work stand out. It's the personal touch.
Assessment
| Component | Requirement | %HL | %SL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computational Solution | 2000 words | 20 | 30 |
| Paper 1: Core | 1.5 hrs / 2.15 hrs | 40 | 45 |
| Paper 2: Option | 1 hr / 1.3 hrs | 20 | 25 |
| Paper 3: Case Study (HL only) | 1 hr | 20 |
|
What Skills does this course provide?
- Java programming
- Computer System development
- Problem-solving
- Algorithmic thinking
What Pathway Options does this course provide?
- Critical for Software Engineering and Computer Programming.
- Desirable for all Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Medicine, Surveying related careers.