Tanzania Ordinary Secondary Education Form III-IV Computer Science Curriculum

This curriculum outlines the Computer Science subject for Forms III-IV in the Tanzania Ordinary Secondary Education system. It is a compulsory subject for students in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) stream and an elective for others. The curriculum aims to equip students with practical computer skills for problem-solving and prepare them for related careers.

Form III

• Computer Architecture: Students learn about data representation, including digital data, number systems, data types, and character coding (UNICODE and ASCII). They practice representing numbers in different number systems (binary, octal, decimal, and hexadecimal) and converting between them. Arithmetic operations using binary numbers are also covered.
• Programming: Building upon Form II, students further develop their programming skills using a structured language like C or Python. They learn about iteration, functions, arrays, strings, and the scope of variables. Debugging programs and evaluating their utility are also emphasized.
• Computer Networks: This topic introduces the concept of computer networks, including their meaning, modes, media, and components. Students learn to design simple networks involving typical topologies and create networks involving data transmission modes and media.
• Databases and Database Management Systems: Students explore the concepts of data and information, learn to manage simple data (create, store, retrieve, and check data quality), and understand the concept of databases and database management systems. They also learn to design and create databases using software like MS Access.

Form IV

• System Administration: This area focuses on maintaining computer systems (desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobiles), including creating and managing user accounts, resetting passwords, and providing user support. Troubleshooting and maintenance techniques are also covered.
• Web Development: Students delve into web development using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. They learn to install and configure the necessary interpreters, create web pages, publish websites, and evaluate their effectiveness.
• Mobile App Development: This topic introduces mobile app creation using a selected programming language. Students learn to create, publish, and evaluate the efficacy of their mobile apps.
• Data Analysis: Students learn the principles of data analysis, including data collection, pre-processing, processing, visualization, and interpretation. They practice analyzing simple data using tools like SPSS or Excel.