Slovenia Osnovna šola 8. razred Curriculum - Computer Science

This curriculum outlines the Computer Science subject in Slovenian primary schools, specifically for the 8th grade. It's an optional subject divided into three main areas: Word Processing, Computer Networks, and Multimedia. Each area focuses on developing practical computer skills alongside theoretical knowledge.

General Learning Objectives:

Across all three areas, the curriculum aims to help students:

• Understand basic computer science concepts and the role of technology in society.
• Keep up with technological advancements.
• Gain basic knowledge and skills for effective computer use.
• Develop communication skills.
• Form opinions about information and evaluate aesthetics.
• Develop skills for effective and aesthetically pleasing information presentation.
• Gain problem-solving skills.
• Develop teamwork skills and positive self-image.
• Develop a responsible approach to protecting intellectual property and personal data.
• Enrich vocabulary and ensure proper Slovenian language use.

Specific Learning Objectives and Activities:

1. Word Processing:

• Information and Computer Science Basics: Students learn to represent information with multiple data points, identify different data representation methods, differentiate between hardware and software, list hardware components and their functions, and establish criteria for evaluating hardware quality. Activities include information retrieval, analysis of data representation, and exploring computer functions and components.
• Data Processing and Communication: Students learn to choose and run software in a graphical operating system, execute commands, create, rename, and delete files, write and format short texts, create and insert images, save and print documents, send and reply to emails, use internet browsers, transfer files, and describe areas where they've used computers.
• Programming (Optional): Students learn to write algorithms for simple everyday problems and create and modify basic computer programs.

2. Computer Networks:

• Information and Computer Science Basics: Students learn to explain the impact of data quantity and quality on information, list basic software types and their uses, and understand the factors influencing information comprehension. Activities include evaluating information quality, analyzing information comprehension, and understanding software functions.
• Data Processing and Communication: Students learn to edit and format text, create and insert images, enter and format data in spreadsheets, create and insert charts, create simple web pages, search for and use online data, describe areas where they've used computers, and understand the advantages and disadvantages of the internet. Emphasis is placed on developing a critical approach to online information and respecting copyright and data protection.
• Programming (Optional): Students learn to write algorithms with decision-making for simple everyday problems and create and modify computer programs with decision-making.

3. Multimedia:

• Information and Computer Science Basics: Students learn to list different media for information presentation and explain why multimedia presentations are more effective than single-media ones. Activities include searching for information across different media and comparing the quality of different information presentations.
• Data Processing and Communication: Students learn to present information using multiple media, create simple computer presentations, use and evaluate online image, audio, and other data, and describe areas where they've used computers. They also analyze the effectiveness of their presentations with classmates.
• Programming (Optional): Students learn to write algorithms for more complex problems and create and modify computer programs with loops and branches.

Special Didactic Recommendations:

The curriculum emphasizes a practical, project-based approach. Students work in groups, using computers to create various products, such as a written document in the first year, a website in the second, and a multimedia presentation in the third. The teacher's role is to guide and support students, encouraging them to find original solutions and complete projects appropriate to their skill level.

Assessment:

Students receive at least one oral assessment and one product assessment. Oral assessments evaluate their understanding of computer use principles and their ability to justify their methods. Product assessments evaluate the quality of their presentations, data encoding, and the effective use of information technology.

Knowledge Catalogue:

The curriculum defines three levels of knowledge: minimal, basic, and advanced. Minimal knowledge is required for progression, basic knowledge is achievable by most students, and advanced knowledge is for more capable students. The curriculum provides specific examples of knowledge at each level for each of the three areas.