Training and CPD for Teachers
There are lots of new units and content in the 2017 BTEC IT and Computing specification. I can provide CPD training and support for either unit theory, assignment preparation or Non Examined Assessment preparation in the following units:
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BTEC IT Level 2 - Creating Systems to Manage Information
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Exam content and preparation.
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ERD design.
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Creating tables and datatypes.
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Validating tables for data input.
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Creating single table queries.
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Creating multi-table queries.
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Queries with aggregate functions (SUM, MIN, MAX).
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Queries with calculated fields.
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Creating simple reports.
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Creating reports from queries.
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Creating reports with calculated fields.
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Creating forms for data entry.
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Creating bound forms for loading data.
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Creating calculated fields in forms.
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BTEC IT Unit 4 Programming
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Explaining the different Paradigms.
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Simple Assembler Programming.
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Programming in Python.
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Programming in C#.
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Programming in VB.NET.
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Assignment preparation.
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BTEC IT Unit 9 - Project Management
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Agile methodology.
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PRINCE2 methodology.
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Waterfall Methodology.
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RAD Methodology.
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How to apply these methodologies to a BTEC project.
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How to handle the Learning Aims B and C writeup.
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BTEC IT Unit 11 Cyber Security and Incident Management
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Core networking theory.
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Basic threats and countermeasures.
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Forensic Analysis.
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How to effectively prepare for the 9 hour Non Examined Assessment.
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BTEC IT Unit 14 IT Service Delivery
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How to deliver the unit with a focus on the exam.
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How to carry out the research phase.
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What is meant by an IT Service Strategy.
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What is meant by an IT Service Solution.
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What is meant by an IT Service Catalogue.
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What documents do you need to an IT Service Solution.
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Costs for training will be £50 per person per hour. Please email me for further details.
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PROGRAMMING SUPPORT FOR TEACHERS
Python has gained an awful lot of traction for Key stage 3 and Key stage 4 programming over the last 5 years, and it's not hard to see why:
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It's a very forgiving language.
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You can begin programming immediately.
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You don't need to learn any difficult syntax.
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It deals with dynamic typing of variables behind the scenes for you.
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It's not case sensitive.
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It is well suited to students with specific learning requirements.
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However, Python does not fit in very well with either the OCR or AQA specification at A Level because:
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It does not support classic FOR loops, you have to loop across an iterator.
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It does not support CASE statements.
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It is not strongly typed so it's difficult for students to understand variable declaration.
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It does not support static arrays (which you need a for loop to use), you have to use NumPy.
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It does not support DO..WHILE loops (or post condition loops).
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You cannot overload methods in Object Orientation, which makes Static Polymorphism almost impossible.
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There is no concept of Public, Private or Protected scope, which is a teaching requirement for most Syllabuses.
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It is challenging to overload or chain constructors in Python.
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All of these, students need to understand the pseudocode for, but Python will not support it.
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I can help provide CPD for you at your school to go over the peculiarities of the language and tailor support for you in your classroom with your year group.
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In addition I can full support you in C# and VB.NET helping you to understand Object Orientation as well as database connectivity.
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This support can be for both GCSE Computing as well as A Level and Level 3 BTEC IT and Computing.
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Remote support via Skype is available.
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Costs for training will be £50 per person per hour. Please email me for further details.