Learning objective
Implementation: Be aware that the models and algorithms need to be implemented in the form of data structures and code (instructions) that a computer can understand. Students should have sufficient practice of writing, debugging and testing programs to enable them to develop the skills to articulate how programs work arguing for their correctness and efficiency using logical reasoning, test data and user feedback. Be aware that the final solution may be arrived at using an iterative process employing prototyping/an agile approach with a focus on solving the critical path first.
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Topic
Aspects of software development
Subtopic
Implementation
Aqa A Level Computer ScienceSystematic approach to problem solving
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Quick explanation
Implementation: Be aware that the models and algorithms need to be implemented in the form of data structures and code (instructions) that a computer can understand. Students should have sufficient practice of writing, debugging and testing programs to enable them to develop the skills to articulate how programs work arguing for their correctness and efficiency using logical reasoning, test data and user feedback. Be aware that the final solution may be arrived at using an iterative process employing prototyping/an agile approach with a focus on solving the critical path first
- This point belongs to Aspects of software development, especially Implementation.
- You need to be able to implementation: Be aware that the models and algorithms need to be implemented in the form of data structures and code (instructions) that a computer can understand. Students should have sufficient practice of writing, debugging and testing programs to enable them to develop the skills to articulate how programs work arguing for their correctness and efficiency using logical reasoning, test data and user feedback. Be aware that the final solution may be arrived at using an iterative process employing prototyping/an agile approach with a focus on solving the critical path first.
- Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.
Why it matters
This objective helps connect Implementation to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Aspects of software development.
Quick student answer
What is the main purpose of implementing an algorithm?
Direct answer
To represent the algorithm as data structures and code that a computer can understand
Key terms
- Critical path: The essential functionality or sequence of work that must be completed for the main solution to operate.
- Prototype: An early version of a solution used to explore, implement and test ideas before further iterations.
Common trap
Treating test results as complete proof: Use test data as evidence, but also explain logically why the code follows the intended algorithm and acknowledge the role of debugging and feedback.
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Related learning objectives
- Analysis: Be aware that before a problem can be solved, it must be defined, the requirements of the system that solves the problem must be established and a data model created. Requirements of system must be established by interaction with the intended users of the system. The process of clarifying requirements may involve prototyping/agile approach. Students should have experience of using abstraction to model aspects of the external world in a program.
Analysis
- Design: Be aware that before constructing a solution, the solution should be designed and specified, for example planning data structures for the data model, designing algorithms, designing an appropriate modular structure for the solution and designing the human user interface. Students should have sufficient experience of successfully structuring programs into modular parts with clear documented interfaces to enable them to design appropriate modular structures for solutions. Be aware that design can be an iterative process involving a prototyping/agile approach.
Design
- Testing: Be aware that the implementation must be tested for the presence of errors, using selected test data covering normal (typical), boundary and erroneous data. Students should have practical experience of designing and applying test data, normal, boundary and erroneous to the testing of programs so that they are familiar with these test data types and the purpose of testing. It should also undergo acceptance testing with the intended user(s) of the system to ensure that the intended solution meets its specification. Students will only need to provide evidence of user feedback not details of the tests carried out by the end user.
Testing
- Evaluation: Know the criteria for evaluating a computer system.
Evaluation