Computing Intermediate level

The study area IM (Intermediate) Computing is informed by the National Curriculum Framework (NCF).

Computing Syllabus has been prepared and compiled in line with previous syllabi, latest Computing related developments and space for future syllabi to add and enhance the contents. It is intended as a natural progression from SEC level Computer Studies and covers a reasonable and coherent portion of the MATSEC Advanced level Computing syllabus. It is aimed at eliciting roughly one third of the effort required in the MATSEC Advanced level Computing syllabus. It should be stressed that this is not a Computer Appreciation or a Computer Applications course. Furthermore, in line with the objectives clearly set in the previous version of this syllabus, the programming language that is to be used throughout this syllabus is to be “Java”. 

It is also stressed that all theoretical treatment of topics should be adequately accompanied by practical (real-world) examples when and wherever applicable. 

At the end of the programme, the student will be able to: 

• understand the basics behind binary logic;  make use, understand and draw truth tables for logic expressions;  draw logic circuits from Boolean expressions;  apply laws of Boolean algebra and/or Karnaugh maps to simplify a Boolean expression;  design a combinational logic circuit using a simple practical application
• gain a good understanding of the main components making up the computer system following the Von Neumann architecture;  understand the function of the different components making up the system;  have a clear understanding of how the different system components are connected together and how they work to give the required output;  understand some basic assembly instructions
• understand the need for, and attributes of, different types of software;  understand that system software is the interface between the hardware and user applications;  describe different types of operating systems and their function;  describe the different functions of an Operating System
• understand the basics of transmission methods in communication;  distinguish between different categories of networks;  appreciate the purpose of a protocol in communication;  appreciate the wide range Internet related technical terms and Internet applications
• understand and appreciate the need for programming;  differentiate between the various mainstream programming paradigms;  identify, understand and use the basic programming and data structures;  have a good understanding of the fundamental concepts of object oriented programming including objects and classes
• understand the basic principles of systems analysis and design;  develop a practical knowledge of the accepted mainstream stages of a software development life-cycle;  appreciate the structure and use of the fundamental development methodologies
• understand the basic structure, function and importance of database management systems (DBMS);  appreciate the importance of relational databases over traditional file systems;  understand the logical structure and design of a relational database