Computer Programming

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 2
Unit No:
M/617/6717
Credits:
6
Guided learning hours:
48 hours

Assessment Guidance

Portfolio of evidence

Aim

Be able to design and develop a simple computer programme.

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

1 — Understand the key principles of computer programming.

What is programming:

  • Software coding

Types of programming language

  • Object oriented
  • Event driven
  • procedural

Different types of programming language:

  • Python,
  • Java,
  • C++,
  • Basic,
  • Scratch,
  • HRM

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Explain the tools and techniques used in a given computer program. 

2 — Be able to design a computer program to meet a given design brief.

Planning and Design:

  • identifying the requirements for the computer program eg data requirements, audience, platform, intended use, security needs

Structure of programming code:

  • Main body
  • Sub routines
  • Libraries
  • Device drivers
  • Definitions
  • Variables
  • Layout of code
  • Comments to explain the process

Producing an algorithm:

flowcharts or pseudocode to meet the design brief. 

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Determine the requirements of the computer program to meet a given design brief.

  • 2.2

    Produce the design for a simple computer program to meet a given design brief.

3 — Be able to create a computer program to meet a given design brief.

Develop a solution using suitable programming language eg structural components of a program, sequencing, data types, data structures, strings, variables, constants, subprograms, input/output, operators

Syntax

  • Uppercase and lowercase characters
  • Naming conventions
  • File naming
  • Extensions
  • Version control

Debug

  • Debugger software
  • Trace statements
  • Monitoring techniques
  • Error messages

Technical Documentation

  • User guide for the client
  • Explain coding

Test and refine the code:

  • produce a test plan
  • Recording the results
  • screen shots to evidence any changes to refine the code
  • Apply corrections and improvements
  • Functionality testing

Evaluate the solution against the given design brief – success criteria.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Produce a simple computer program to meet a given design brief, using appropriate programming code and syntax.

  • 3.2

    Test the computer program using a test plan.

  • 3.3

    Explain how the computer program fulfils the given design brief.