A pathway from foundations to application
This self-directed pathway organises computer science into four connected stages. It is a subject exploration resource rather than an accredited programme specification. Work through the stages at a pace that allows time for reading, practice and reflection.
1. Discrete mathematics
Focus on discrete mathematics as a way to understand algorithms and reliable software systems. Build a concise glossary, identify the central models and explain one idea without relying on specialist vocabulary.
Learning activity: select a published example related to discrete mathematics. Identify the question, evidence and conclusion. Reconstruct the reasoning and note one assumption that could change the result.
Portfolio evidence: write a short critical explanation of how discrete mathematics connects with algorithms and data structures. Include an annotated diagram, worked example or source comparison where appropriate.
2. Algorithms and data structures
Focus on algorithms and data structures as a way to understand algorithms and reliable software systems. Build a concise glossary, identify the central models and explain one idea without relying on specialist vocabulary.
Learning activity: select a published example related to algorithms and data structures. Identify the question, evidence and conclusion. Reconstruct the reasoning and note one assumption that could change the result.
Portfolio evidence: write a short critical explanation of how algorithms and data structures connects with operating systems. Include an annotated diagram, worked example or source comparison where appropriate.
3. Operating systems
Focus on operating systems as a way to understand algorithms and reliable software systems. Build a concise glossary, identify the central models and explain one idea without relying on specialist vocabulary.
Learning activity: select a published example related to operating systems. Identify the question, evidence and conclusion. Reconstruct the reasoning and note one assumption that could change the result.
Portfolio evidence: write a short critical explanation of how operating systems connects with software engineering. Include an annotated diagram, worked example or source comparison where appropriate.
4. Software engineering
Focus on software engineering as a way to understand algorithms and reliable software systems. Build a concise glossary, identify the central models and explain one idea without relying on specialist vocabulary.
Learning activity: select a published example related to software engineering. Identify the question, evidence and conclusion. Reconstruct the reasoning and note one assumption that could change the result.
Portfolio evidence: write a short critical explanation of how software engineering connects with discrete mathematics. Include an annotated diagram, worked example or source comparison where appropriate.