The development of this computer studies syllabus for senior secondary schools was prompted by recommendations made in the Revised National Policy on Education Paper No.2 of 1994. Tomorrow’s world is an ICT one where information-handling skills will be needed to improve the standard of learning and living. The world is becoming connected electronically by the Internet, the world-wide  network through which we can all share information. As is clearly stated in Vision 2016 it is the intention of Botswana to become a commercial centre within Southern Africa as part of a global network and its populace will require the necessary ICT skills to enable this goal to be achieved.

The syllabus is geared towards students who are in senior secondary school and is designed to equip them with knowledge of computer skills, the applied use in the world of work, and a background for further training. It includes theoretical and practical content in hardware, software, communication  and data processing.

The course is recommended to take two (2) years. On successful completion of a project, a practical exam and a written examinationstudents will achieve a BGCSE in computer studies.

RATIONALE

Increasingly in the modern world acquisition of computer skills is becoming necessary for employment, educational development and leisure. Computer Studies intends to furnish students with a broad knowledge of the nature of information processing and how Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is used today. The syllabus concentrates on the current use of computer skills but in addition students will be equipped to appreciate future developments in technology and it’s application.

The Education Policy of Botswana aims to prepare Botswana for a transition from a traditional agro-based to an industrial economy. In a fast growing economical environment, entrepreneurship is a major vehicle for both development and job creation and students will be encouraged to explore how the use of computers can benefit society as a whole. The industrial economy world-wide  is driven by ICT, which uses computers to process, analyse and communicate information in an increasingly efficient and effective way. Thus any developing industrial society must have a high level of computer literacy within its workforce who would then be capable of fully exploiting the opportunities made possible by ICT.

The course will foster an interest in, enjoyment of, and confidence about the use of computers that will encourage the development of problem solving, analytical and research skills. On completion of the course, students will have the ability to use computer skills and techniques as a problem-solving tool.

AIMS OF THE SENIOR SECONDARY PROGRAMME

On completion of the two-year Senior Secondary Programme learners should have:

1. acquired knowledge, developed confidence and ability to assess their personal strengths and weaknesses and be realistic in choosing appropriate career/employment opportunities and or further education and training.
2. developed skills to assist them in solving technical and technological problems as they relate to day-to-day life situations.
3. developed desirable attitudes and behavioural patterns in interacting with the environment in a manner that is protective, preserving and nurturing.
4. acquired attitudes and values, developed basic skills and understanding to allow for execution of rights and responsibilities as good citizens of Botswana and the world.
5. developed information technology skills as well as an understanding and appreciation of their influence in the day-to-day activities.
6. acquired knowledge, attitudes and practices that will ensure good family and health practices including awareness and management of epidemics (such as HIV/AIDS) that prepare them for productive life.
7. developed pre-vocational knowledge and manipulative skills that will enable them to apply content learnt and attitudes and values developed to practical life situations in the world of work.
8. developed an understanding of and acquired skills in business, everyday commercial transactions and entrepreneurship.
9. developed foundation skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, communication, inquiring, team work/interpersonal to help them to be productive and adaptive and to survive in a changing environment.
10. developed study skills required for further study and training.

AIMS OF THE SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL COMPUTER STUDIES SYLLABUS

On completion of the two-year Computer Studies course students should have:

• developed skills on the use of computers in research.
• developed skills in using computers to process data.
• acquired knowledge and understanding about how computer systems work.
• developed an awareness of how computers are used in business, home and industry.
• developed life long learning skills to be able to apply their ICT knowledge to solve real life problems.
• a clear understanding of a range of techniques and knowledge required in the use of computers.
• developed an awareness and appreciation of social and economic implications in computing.
• developed critical and logical thinking, self-reliance and initiative, which will serve as the basis for further training and positive work habits in the use of computers.

RECOMMENDED TEACHING METHODS

The syllabus encourages a learner-centred approach to learning and teaching as emphasised in the Curriculum Blueprint. In such an approach, the learner is at the centre of most activities and the teacher provides an enabling environment for learning to take place. This means the teacher should use a variety of action oriented methods, such as project work, visits to commercial houses and other Information Technology institutions. Learners should be made to participate actively in the learning and teaching processes through a lot of hands-on activities. The teacher is required to keep up to date with new information Technology developments around the world in order to bring the latest developments in the computer industry into the classroom.

The syllabus is not intended to be taught sequentially from the beginning to end but all topics must be covered.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES

Computer Studies in the curriculum should aim at providing learners with experiences, which cover the following domains: knowledge, understanding, application, analysis, evaluation, judgement and decision-making.

Knowledge and understanding

Learners should be able to:

• Demonstrate appropriate knowledge of facts, concepts, principles and techniques in Computer Studies.

Information Handling and Problem Solving

Learners should be able to:

• Apply their knowledge and understanding to situations and problems related to computers.
• Distinguish between facts and opinion and evaluate data in order to make an informed judgement.
• Study a problem situation and be able to design a computer-based system to solve the problem.
• Identify issues in the computer world in order to present reasoned explanation, understand implications, make reasoned judgement and communicate them in an informed manner.

Investigation and Experimentation

 Learners should be able to:

• Set objectives, plan and carry out an investigation of a particular system.
• Select, analyse, interpret and evaluate data from a variety of sources using computers.
• Present the results of an investigation appropriately.

Attitudes

Learners should be able to:

• Develop an appreciation of the use of computers.
• Recognise the usefulness of computers and their limitations.
• Show awareness of the social implications of the use of computers.

ASSESSMENT

The Botswana Senior Secondary Computer Studies syllabus will be assessed using a variety of assessment instruments in order to ensure that learners attain the set aims and objectives of the programme. School based assessment in the form of tests, assignments and practical exercises will be used throughout the teaching of the course. The outcome of the assessment methods will be used to improve instruction.

At the end of the two years of Senior Secondary programme students will sit for a final examination. Coursework in the form of a project will contribute to the certification. Assessment guidelines will be developed by the examining body to provide guidance to teachers on the proper examination procedures.

ORGANISATION OF THE SYLLABUS

The syllabus is organised around broad content areas called Sections. The Sections are subdivided into topics. Each topic consists of general objectives, which give rise to specific objectives. The specific objectives describe what learners are expected to do.