Computing
We want our children to grow up with the skills to use this technology safely and discerningly; to have the life skills that enable them to use it confidently but appropriately.
We believe that if we teach our children these skills through a range of relevant, topic based tasks they will become competent and discerning users of IT.
Essential characteristics of effective coders and users of technology includes:
- Competence in coding for a variety of practical and inventive purposes, including the application of ideas within other subjects
- The ability to connect with others safely and respectfully, understanding the need to act within the law and with moral and ethical integrity
- An understanding of the connected nature of devices
- The ability to communicate ideas well by using applications and devices throughout the curriculum
- The ability to collect, organise and manipulate data effectively
There are four threshold concepts in computing:
- Coding: This concept involves developing an understanding of instructions, logic and sequences
- Connect: This concept involves developing an understanding of how to safely connect with others
- Communicate: This concept involves using apps to communicate one’s ideas
- Collect: This concept involves developing an understanding of databases and their uses
We place emphasis on the teaching of coding (also known as programming) as it is a large part of the computing curriculum. We want even our youngest children to enjoy problem solving; to be confident to have a go, embrace when they have made a mistake and then have a go at correcting it. Using programmes such as Scratch gives our children the forum to do this.
The Internet is an amazing source of information which enhances learning in many ways. Being ‘e-safe’ means teaching our children what to do when online and faced with strangers asking for details when gaming, if they see inappropriate images or if they experience cyberbullying. We use materials by Kidsmart, Thinkuknow and CBBC Stay Safe to teach our children to be digitally aware.