Computing

This course will interest you if you enjoy working with computers, coding or enjoy solving problems. The NPA in Software Development is suitable for a wide range of candidates with basic computing abilities who wish to develop the fundamental knowledge and skills required to solve problems by developing computer programs in a high-level language.

The NPA in Software Development at SCQF Level 4 is intended to prepare you for progression to further study in a variety of computing disciplines. 

During the award you will learn all about the basic programming concepts and how to write short programs using a software development language and environment. After the basics are covered you will develop further programming skills and eventually the knowledge and understanding required to devise a solution to a problem in software development. By the end of this course, you will have developed practical skills in software development using a high-level language. 

These courses will give you the opportunity to develop:

• Understanding of the principles of software development, software development languages and environments
• Entry level skills using a high-level programming language
• Industry-standard software and principles
• Core Skills in problem solving in relation to software development.
• Analytical and other transferable skills. 

The Course includes the following Units:

• Computing: Programming in a High-level Language: Fundamentals SCQF level 4
• Software Development SCQF level 5
• Problem Solving SCQF level 4

You need to have a basic level of IT skills e.g., Microsoft Word and understand the general operation/navigation of a Windows based PC.

You must possess an interest in at least one of the following: art, programming, audio, or design.

It would be good if you have played different games and consoles/platforms but not essential as we will discuss a variety of examples throughout.

Some previous experience of coding using platforms like Scratch and AppInventor would be good though not essential.

You will be expected to create a portfolio of your work. The portfolio may be paper or electronic (digital) and should be completed over the period of the course, with you contributing material to the portfolio on an ongoing basis. This will be a mix of practical and knowledge-based assessments.

Classes are on a Tuesday and Thursday afternoon at Kilmarnock Campus from 2-4pm.

You will study 3 subjects, which are mainly practical, with some theory and written assessments.

• Programming in a High-Level Language using Python
• Software Development extends your knowledge of programming later in the year. This also teaches you about the software development lifecycle – design, implement and test
• Problem Solving is combined with these units

By the end of the course you will have produced some small software applications.

Successful completion of the Level 4 course may allow you to progress to:

• NPA Software Development Level 6
• NC Computing at Level 5
• NC Games and Software Development Level 6

“Honestly, the College turned out to be really enjoyable. Very flexible but I’m still able to work on and complete tasks. The very flexible approach allows me to work at my own pace and still get it completed in time."