Description
Description
This fully face-to-face course is aimed at students aged 12-15 who wish to learn a key skill that will enhance their skillset, particularly those that have no knowledge of computer programming. It introduces the students to the basic concepts and techniques of developing programmes for problem solving through coding. Students will learn to design, implement, test, debug, and document programmes. The course establishes the foundation on which students will be able to start developing application programmes in different high-level programming languages such as Python. The course comprises a total of 25 learning hours. This workload is distributed across 9 contact hours, 12 hours of independent self-study, and 4 hours dedicated to assessment.
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Outcome Type:
Skill
The learner will be able to:
a) Utilise basic computer programming techniques to effectively and systematically solve a variety of problems;
b) Demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in utilising and applying fundamental programming terms, including keywords, variables, operators, and loops;
c) Apply a stepwise problem-solving process, including the creation and implementation of algorithms, flowcharts, pseudocode, and actual code, to solve programming challenges;
d) Employ computational thinking skills to design programmes that efficiently address specific requirements and objectives; and
e) Execute the debugging and testing procedures to identify and rectify errors in programme code, ensuring the functionality and reliability of the programmes.
Outcome Type:
Knowledge
The learner will be able to:
a) Demonstrate understanding of fundamental programming concepts and their functions by accurately defining and explaining them;
b) Apply critical thinking skills to engage with computer programming and problem-solving, fostering a passion for the subject;
c) Utilise basic programming knowledge to explore and create problem-solving methods;
d) Employ mathematical techniques to optimise accuracy and efficiency in problem-solving, demonstrating proficiency in applying mathematical concepts to programming; and
e) Analyse and articulate the practical applications of computer programming in everyday tasks, illustrating how programming enhances efficiency and productivity.
Requirements:
Students need to be able to read, write and communicate in English and able to use the internet and their devices to access online content. No previous coding or programming experience is required!
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Pedagogical Approach:
This programme employs a student-centred, participatory approach, combining inquiry-based learning with a personalised methodology. Our tutors act as facilitators, providing continuous guidance and encouraging students to drive the learning process through active questioning and the exploration of specific interests.
To support this, we implement:
a) Personalised Learning Plans: Specific to each student’s skills and interests.
b) Competency-Based Progression: Ensuring students move to advanced topics only upon mastering current standards.
c) Independent Research: Students are required to investigate key concepts and troubleshoot problems, with tutors providing high-level process recommendations.
Assessment:
Achievement in this programme is measured through a continuous project-based assessment:
a) Formative Feedback: Students receive ongoing feedback and support from tutors during each session as they develop their projects.
b) Summative Presentation: During the final session, students present their completed project to their tutor and peers for final evaluation.
c) Reassessment Policy: The pass mark is set at 50%. Students who do not achieve this mark are entitled to one final reassessment attempt. Students who do not pass following the reassessment will receive a certificate of attendance.
Grading System:
In accordance with the Institute’s Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) policy, the following criteria are used for evaluation:
Distinction (80%+): Artefact of distinguished quality; demonstrates synthesis, originality, and insight. Code is well-structured and efficient.
Merit (70%–79%): High-quality artefact showing clear signs of originality. Well-executed code and application.
Upper Pass (60%–69%): Evidence of independent inquiry and critical judgement. Solid understanding of coding with minor room for optimization.
Pass (50%–59%): Demonstrates ability to structure code and implement basic functionality; may be simplistic in features.
Narrow Fail (40%–49%): Recognises key concepts but lacks essential features. Code may be difficult to maintain.
Compensable Fail (35%–39%): Performance falls marginally below the required standard. Artefact may be incomplete or repetitive.
Fail (<35%): Little to no understanding of the subject. Significant lack of functionality or implementation.
Certification
Certification
Title: Award in Basic Coding
EQF/MQF: Level 3
ECTS: 1 ECTS
Awarding Body: European Institute for Emerging Technologies (EIET) (License Number: 2023-109)
Regulatory Body: Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA)
