Program Overview

Course Overview

The aim of the programme is to develop the knowledge and competencies of participants in Python Programming. Content will be delivered online providing learners with a strategic understanding and applied skills in the area of computer science with reference to the emerging interest at post-primary level of teaching opportunities in this space. This programme will develop and foster the learner’s creativity and problem solving, along with their ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum 2.2 honours bachelor degree (Level 8) in a cognate discipline
• A minimum 2.2 honours bachelor degree (Level 8) in a non-cognate discipline with considerable experience and/or ability, evidenced by an RPL portfolio of prior experience and learning or equivalent qualifications.

Module Outline

Content

• In this module learners will adopt a principled approach to writing code and managing the software development process thus developing their design and programming knowledge. On completion of the module learners will be able to;
  • deconstruct system and user requirements to design a programmable solution appropriate for classroom based projects.
  • implement algorithms and program design using a high level programming language that adheres to industry standard conventions and best practice.
  • demonstrate proficiency in software development methodologies and devise and implement a testing plan that incorporates functional and structural testing.

More Information

Delivery

• Average weekly content/contact is 4 hours per week consisting of 2 synchronous hours per week i.e. one Saturday live workshop online once a month and one live 1 hour tutorial once a week plus 2 hours of asynchronous content per week where the weekly recorded material will be provided for the learner to work through in their own time and at their own pace.

What will the time commitment be?

• Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures, tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assignments are due.

Assessment

• Assessment for the module will be 100% continuous assessment and will comprise a series of weekly assessment tasks, a short research report and a project.

Qualification

• Certificate in Programming in Python (Special Purpose Award, Level 9, 10 Credits)

Fees

• €950* – this is a discounted fee for 2025, normal fee is €1400.

Progression Information

• Further Study
  • Students who successfully complete this certificate can progress to the Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science for Teachers or the Masters in Computer Science for Teachers programmes.