Diploma in Computing
FAQs
- How are Pass, Merit and Distinction awarded for each module, and for the full Diploma?
- How is it different from the Cambridge International Diploma (CID) in ICT / IT Skills?
- How long does the course take?
- How will it be assessed?
- So is it more difficult than the CID in ICT at Advanced Level?
- Where can we obtain examples of ‘model’ answers that have been awarded the highest grades?
- What is its relationship with A/AS Level in Computing?
- What kind of online support is available?
- Who is it suitable for?
- How are Pass, Merit and Distinction awarded for each module, and for the full Diploma?
- For individual modules, the raw marks will be graded along with A Level Candidates. Pass and Distinction will correspond to the appropriate grade thresholds. For the full Diploma, a candidate will need three or more modules at Distinction level to gain a Distinction overall.
An overall Pass grade will be awarded for the Diploma where candidates achieve four modules at Merit level or three modules at Merit level and one module at Pass level. An overall Distinction Grade will be awarded for the Diploma where candidates achieve four modules at Distinction level or three modules at Distinction level and one module at Merit level. - Top of page
- How is it different from the Cambridge International Diploma (CID) in ICT / IT Skills?
- IT and ICT focus on developing competencies for the computer user, whereas the CID in Computing is intended for students who wish to learn about computer systems and programming, rather than about the application of ICT.
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- How long does the course take?
- This will vary from centre to centre and also depend on the candidates’ prior knowledge, but will normally require 360 learning hours.
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- How will it be assessed?
- 2 written exams
Module 1 – Computer Systems, Communications and Software
Module 3 – Further Systems and Software
Two practical projects, marked by the Centre and moderated by CIE
Module 2 – Practical Progamming Project
Module 4 – Computing Project - Top of page
- So is it more difficult than the CID in ICT at Advanced Level?
- It is more specialised but should be equal in terms of difficulty.
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- Where can we obtain examples of ‘model’ answers that have been awarded the highest grades?
- A standards booklet, containing extracts from candidates’ scripts, the mark awarded and comment from the Principal Examiner are available for 5216, 5218, and 5219. For further information, please contact Customer Services on international@cie.org.uk
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- What is its relationship with A/AS Level in Computing?
- Three out of the four modules/components are identical. The only differences are the computing project (module 4), which will involve more advanced programming skills for the Diploma. The content of the Diploma’s practical module goes beyond what is expected of A Level students, so it could be said to bridge the gap between an Advanced Level and Professional Level qualification.
Despite their similarities, there will be 2 separate syllabuses and sets of exam papers. - Top of page
- What kind of online support is available?
- We offer past papers, an FAQ section and a list of resouces to download. The Teacher Support Site also comprises Examiner Reports and Schemes of Work.
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- Who is it suitable for?
- Like DIT, it is mainly suitable for students who intend to work in an IT–related job, particularly as a programmer, network manager or software engineer. These could be school or college students or adults wishing to re–train.
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