Below are responses to some frequently asked questions about the course.
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What type of evidence do I need to prove I am eligible for a funded place on the course?
Eligibility for Postgraduate Certificate in Software Development (for Teachers)
This course is specifically designed to give educators the skills and confidence to support teaching in computer programming at School level. This is a funded course and will provide access to the full MSc 2nd year (Part time) (at additional cost).
Funding is only currently available to those normally resident in Northern Ireland.
To be eligible for September 2020 entry, applicants must demonstrate that they are part of one of the following 3 categories:
- A current teacher/ FE Lecturer – Please provide an official letter of support from a head teacher or head of department.
- A newly qualified teacher, expected to graduate in summer 2020 – please provide a transcript of marks, if your degree certificate is not yet available.
- A substitute teacher – please provide evidence of being enrolled on the register for substitute teachers in Northern Ireland.
NB Evidence to this effect must be uploaded at the time you are completing your application.
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I have no prior experience of coding. Will the course be too difficult for me?
No, we will assume everyone has no previous experience and we will build from there. No prior experience of coding will be needed.
- What will be taught in the course?
The course consists of two modules, Programming and Computing Foundations. The Programming module is taught using the Java programming language, which is one of the most common languages used in the software industry. In it you will learn the principles of programming and Object Orientated programming. Computing Foundations is designed to give you a knowledge of a broad set of computing topics including data storage, data structures, computer architecture and an introduction to Software Engineering and Software Testing.
- How will I be taught?
Teaching and assessment will be fully online through a mixture of online activities, self-directed study, practice materials and weekly quizzes. You will be able to ask questions both during and after online learning sessions and have access to virtual face-to-face help during the course.
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What hardware will I need?
You will need a broadband connection, access to a computer and a Web Cam and microphone.
- What type of computer will I need?
A basic entry-level workstation or laptop would be sufficient for the PG cert. Either an Apple Mac or Windows machines would be fine. If you have a recent computer (purchased in the last two or so years) it will likely be appropriate for the course. If not, then a computer with at least 4 GB of RAM, an Intel or similar processor and at least 128 GB hard drive space, costing around £400 would be adequate. You may wish to upgrade your computer if you eventually progress onto the MSc course.
- What is the aptitude test like?
The aptitude test is online. It consists of short timed assessments that fall into three main categories, written and verbal reasoning, diagrammatic reasoning and symbolic manipulation.
- When is the aptitude test?
We plan to have the aptitude test in the period 6-9 August 2020 . You will only be able to attempt it once, but we will provide some practice questions for you to attempt on the day to familiarise yourself with the nature of the questions and the operation of the test system.
- When do I need to apply ?
Applications close on 31 July 2020 at 17:00 (5pm) BST.
Got a question not covered here?
Contact the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Email: askeps@qub.ac.uk