Software Design and Development Two units for each of Year 11 and HSC NESA Developed Course
What background knowledge do I need to study Software Design and Development? Previous study of Information and Software Technology is not expected when electing this course for study during Years 11 and 12. Prior knowledge from students is not a requirement nor an indicator for their level of success. It is assumed that students have an interest in logic, problem solving and coding.
Why study Software Design and Development? Software Design and Development provides students authentic opportunities to design and develop software solutions. The subject provides students with a systematic approach to problem solving, an opportunity to be creative, excellent career prospects and interesting content. The subject is not only for those who seek further study or careers in this field, but also for those who wish to understand the underlying principles of software design and development. Students with software development skills wishing to acquire team and communication skills will find this subject relevant. The computing field, particularly in the area of software design and development, offers opportunities for creativity and problem solving and a collaborative work environment where working with people and exploring issues is an integral part of the job. It is critical that students of both genders have the knowledge, understanding and skills necessary to pursue the many new, exciting and highly paid employment opportunities that exist in the field. The study of Software Design and Development promotes intellectual, social and ethical growth. It provides the flexibility to be able to adapt in a field that is constantly changing, yet vital to the Australian economy. This course opens the door to a wealth of opportunities in new areas of entrepreneurship and start-ups as well as traditional industries. On completion, the subject provides students with options in the workforce and university study.
Course description: The Year 11 course introduces students to the basic concepts of software design and development. It does this by looking at the different ways in which software can be developed, the tools that can be used to assist in this process and by considering the interaction between software and the other components of the computer system. The HSC course builds on the Year 11 course and involves the development and documentation of software using a variety of data structures and language facilities. Students learn to solve a number of interesting and relevant software problems.
Main topics covered: Year 11 Course
50
•
Concepts and Issues in the Design and Development of Software o Social and ethical issues o Hardware and software o Software development approaches
(30%)
•
Introduction to Software Development o Defining and understanding the problem o Planning and designing software solutions o Implementing software solutions o Testing and evaluating software solutions
(50%)
Subject Choice for the Higher School Certificate
