Cambridge O Level

Computer Science 2210

Key benefits

Cambridge O Level Computer Science provides an ideal foundation in computer science.

Students gain confidence in computational thinking and programming, an appreciation of
automated and emerging technologies and the benefits of their use. They develop an
understanding of the main principles of problem-solving by creating computer-based
solutions using algorithms and a high-level programming language. Students also develop
a range of technical skills including the ability to test effectively and to evaluate solutions.

The approach in Cambridge O Level Computer Science encourages students to be:

confident, interested in learning about computer science and using technical language to
communicate their knowledge and understanding.

responsible, working systematically, safely and securely when using technology.

reflective, learning from their experiences when creating programs and using technology;
understanding how technology impacts society.

innovative, solving unfamiliar problems and designing computer programs creatively and
independently engaged, keen to develop computer science skills and further their
understanding of developments in the use of technology.

International recognition and acceptance

The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge O Level Computer Science gives
students a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are
well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A
Level Computer Science.

Cambridge O Levels are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers
around the world as evidence of academic achievement. Many universities require a
combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and Cambridge O Levels or
equivalent to meet their entry requirements.

Syllabus overview

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to develop:

• computational thinking skills

• an understanding of the main principles of solving problems using computers
• the skills necessary to solve computer-based problems using a high-level
programming language
 • an understanding of the component parts of computer systems and how they
interrelate
• an understanding of the internet as a means of communication and its associated
risks
• an understanding of the development and use of automated and emerging
technologies.

Content overview

Candidates study the following topics:

Computer systems (Paper 1)

1 Data representation
2 Data transmission
3 Hardware
4 Software
5 The internet and its uses
6 Automated and emerging technologies

Algorithms, programming and logic (Paper 2)

7 Algorithm design and problem-solving

8 Programming
9 Databases
10 Boolean logic

Why Choose Computer Science?

Over the past decades, advancement in computer technology has been the key driving
force behind much of the changes witnessed in many aspects of our lives. Beyond this
impact on our daily lives as users of technology, Computing has become so entrenched in
the fields of Science, Technologies, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) that it has
transformed the very practices of those disciplines.

Data analytics are transforming the future of business and research in diverse areas. We
will need stronger computational capacity and people with considerable computational
thinking skills to automate and streamline processes, work with data (e.g. text and images)
to discern trends and draw inferences, develop hypotheses and innovate in fields like
medicine, science and engineering to solve complex problems.

Professionals in finance, retail and manufacturing will require computational thinking skills
to be competitive in their fields. For example, it will be an asset to acquire the ability to use
a computer to analyse data to predict market and business trends, understand economic
conditions and build participatory relationships with clients in the digital environment.
Students who study O-Level Computing would acquire a stronger foundation in
computational thinking that would be useful to their further studies and careers.

In addition to its potential to evolve much further, computing is also a career in which there
are many high-paying jobs across the world where people are highly desired by many
companies, paid well, and allowed to work with an exceptional amount of freedom.
Let’s look at some of the best IT jobs:
 • Software Developer
• Computer Systems Analyst
• IT Manager
• Information Security Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Web Developer

Also, anybody can freelance, strikes his own work-life balance anywhere he likes.

Computer science professionals are playing a large part in shaping the future of our world
and bringing benefits big and small to all aspects of society. These tech pros can make
waves in fields like healthcare, research, and education while empowering underserved
communities and increasing equality along the way.