ib computer science case study 2023

External Assessment — Paper 3 #

Paper 3 asks a number of questions related to a pre-released case study .

Here is the case study for use in May and November 2024

Case studies from other years .

The maximum number of marks you can get for Paper 3 is 30. Your Paper 3 score translates into 20% of your final HL grade, see grade boundaries .

Grade boundaries #

Computer science course has a variety of assessment components. Paper 3 is marked using markschemes and markbands and assigned a numerical mark by the external examiner. Grade boundaries are then applied to determine the overall grade on the 1-7 scale for this component.

These boundaries have no impact on your final grade. However, they may be used to estimate the difficulty of the component.

Higher Level #

IB CompSci Hub

Welcome to CompSci Hub

Welcome to the  International Baccalaureate Diploma’s Computer Science resource site for teachers and students.

This site provides teaching & learning resources for eight key topics of the HL course (topics 1 to 7 and Option D – OOP). for the  Computer Science course (either HL or SL) as a part of the IB Diploma .

Having scoured the web for information and resources regarding the Computer Science SL/HL course and found very little, I’ve decided to collate all known resources, add in a few of our own, and publish it for all to see and use. If I have accidentally used a resource that you own without your consent, please let us know and I will take it down immediately.

Regretfully, I no longer teach the IB Computer Science course. Furthermore, the IB has stated that they will be releasing a new specification to be started in the academic year 2023-24, with the first exams in May 2025.

Thank you to everyone for supporting this project for the last 7 years. I will miss you all dearly and wish you every success with your Computer Science journey. 

Happy computing! Chris

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This is made by Hamelin Students for CS HL in IB.

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https://github.com/d-prieto/2023IBComputerScienceCaseStudy/blob/main/Mock%202023%20Febrero%20-HL%20-%20Paper%203.pdf

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This is the unofficial subreddit for all things concerning the International Baccalaureate, an academic credential accorded to secondary students from around the world after two vigorous years of study, culminating in challenging exams. This subreddit encourages questions, constructive feedback, and the sharing of knowledge and resources among IB students, alumni, and teachers. Note that the subreddit is not run by the International Baccalaureate.

Computer Science HL Case Study for 2024

The Case Study for 2024 exams (M24 and N24) has been released: "Rescue Robots." Topics include computer vision, robotic navigation of an unknown area, recognizing human poses, etc. All HL students should spend time this summer reading and researching the topic, particularly getting comfortable with the vocabulary.

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Find your course

Engineering and physical sciences foundation programme: computer science.

Our foundation programme paves the way to a degree programme in BSc Computer Science at the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

Location: Aston University, Birmingham

Course overview

Course description, course objectives, entry requirements, fees and scholarships.

• Download our prospectus

Register your interest

In our computer science foundation programme, you will be equipped with the essential groundwork for your future undergraduate studies, offering a clear path towards BSc Computer Science. 

On this programme you will learn, collaborate and flourish through project based learning with students in other digital subject areas. This approach of learning mimics the real-life working world, where your career will be enriched by working alongside people with different skill sets, view points and approaches. 

“My advice to future students would be to get to know your lecturers, network with fellow students on your course and try to absorb as much knowledge as possible, as you'll definitely use it through the years.”

Why Engineering and Physical Sciences Foundation: Computer Science at Aston University?

Aston University's foundation programme in Computer Science will empower you with the essential skills and knowledge to transition onto BSc Computer Science. 

What we will provide First-class teaching in the UK’s second largest city, delivered by experienced and passionate faculty members who are not only experts in their fields but dedicated to helping you succeed. You will make use of state-of-the-art facilities, including modern computer labs. 

We are an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry. To find out more,  visit here .

What you will provide  We are looking for students who are up for a challenge, have a passion for technology, a curious mind, and a hunger to make a real impact. Computer Science revolves around problem-solving and overcoming obstacles, so embracing a growth mindset and continuously seeking self-improvement will serve you well on your academic journey.

What skills we teach Hands-on collaborative learning lies at the heart of our programme. Through practical and project-based activities, you will actively engage with course material, working together in teams to tackle real-world challenges. This hands-on approach will enhance critical thinking, problem-solving and teamworking skills, preparing you for the dynamic demands of computer science. 

Progression opportunities On successful completion of our foundation programme, you will then have the opportunity to transition onto our BSc Computer Science degree. Graduates from this versatile and in-demand BSc degree have gone on to successful roles such as Software engineer or developer, Technical analyst and IT compliance consultant for leading tech companies, startups, and the public sector.

How you will learn

Our teaching methods range from engaging lectures to interactive workshops, allowing you to absorb knowledge through multiple approaches. You will dive into real-world projects that challenge and inspire you through hands on work, where you will put theory into practice.  

Here at Aston University, we are passionate about supporting our students. You will have a personal tutor throughout your studies to provide support and guidance, and a dedicated programming support officer for additional support.  The Learning Development Centre  is there to provide maths support, academic writing development, advice, and strategies for managing your studies. You will also have the opportunity to get involved in PAL sessions, learning from your peers who have been through the course content before you.

Extracurricular activities:

• You can join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals in our Aston Computer Science Society
• Become a member of the 'Industry Club'. Where you'll gain access to hands-on industry experience, internships, and projects with tech companies. Helping you build your professional network from the get-go.
• Challenge yourself in the annual  Aston Hack hackathon , an exciting 24 hours of designing, coding, and making.
• Let your creativity run wild in our  Design Challenge , whilst you tackle real-world engineering problems and propose innovative solutions.
• Join our  Formula Student  team where you will design, build, and race your very own formula-style car.

What you will learn

On this programme, you’ll receive an introductory overview on how to run software projects, understanding how to create usable and accessible software. Whilst developing the essential skills to transition onto BSc Computer Science, you will gain invaluable hands-on experience that sets you apart in industry. 

My Computer Science Placement

Discover Parminder's placement year as a Software Developer  

Aston University campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern computer labs, collaborative spaces, and resources to aid your studies and research. We have dedicated lab officers and laptop support technicians available to all students. 

• Provides you with the necessary fundamental skills and knowledge for progression into Stage 1 of study.
• Develops transferrable and communication skills required to be successful in further study.
• Develops ethical and inclusive, problem solvers and critical thinkers.
• Graduates will begin to develop the global awareness, sustainability and inclusive practice required in modern professional practice.

Modules and learning outcomes

• Foundation year modules

Foundation Year modules

In your foundation year you will study the following core modules:

Foundation year outcomes 

On successful completion of your foundation year, you will be able to:

• Use mathematical principles to solve well-defined problems.
• Solve well-defined problems using technical and scientific concepts relevant to the framework of study.
• Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating inclusive, effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Communicate discipline relevant technical ideas and solutions effectively, in a variety of ways, to diverse audiences, using appropriate terminology.
• Conduct practical activities using appropriate equipment/tools, review data and draw conclusions to support technical decision-making relevant to the framework of study.
• Discuss ethical and professional responsibilities, including stakeholder involvement, sustainability, safety, technical, EDI, and social factors.
• Collect, interpret, and present, data from a variety of sources.
• Reflect on their own learning needs and successes.
• Demonstrate awareness of project management principles and methods

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Standard offer: CCD EPQ Offer: CDD and Level 3 Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) grade B Core Maths Offer: CDD and Level 3 Core Maths Qualification grade B Aston ready (Widening participation) offer: DDD  

Contextual offers

Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

• Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma: Merit Merit Merit 
• Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade of Merit
• National Diploma and Diploma: Merit Merit plus 1 A-level at minimum Grade D 
• Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade Merit plus an A-Level in any subject at grade D OR achieve an overall grade Merit plus a BTEC Sub Dip/ Extended National Cert in any subject grade Merit
• Foundation or 90 credits Diploma: Merit Merit plus 2 A-level minimum Grade CD 
• National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma: Merit plus 2 A-level minimum Grade CD

26 including 3, 3, 3 in Higher Level subjects

Successful completion of the QAA-recognised Access Diploma with 60 credits including 45 credits at Level 3. You must obtain a minimum of 9 Distinctions, 12 Merits and 24 Pass.

All subjects are accepted at T Level: Merit  

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement each applicant must meet a GCSE (level 2) requirements: 

• GCSE English Language or Literature minimum grade C/4
• GCSE Mathematics minimum grade C/4

Course fees

UK students (2025/26)

International students (2025/26)

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships  

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Foundation Programme: Computer Science programme employs a range of authentic assessment methods, including presentations, coursework, quizzes, and some exams.  We make sure to coordinate deadlines to ensure you have a manageable workload.

The assessment methods will reflect the most effective and relevant way to review your performance for each module. Therefore, each module will be assessed in a variety of ways to reflect your knowledge from that module and how you would apply it in the real world.

Career Prospects

Engineering and physical science skills are used in almost all aspects of our modern lives, meaning that graduates in these areas are in high demand. Students who have completed an Engineering and Physical Science Foundation Programme go on to study for their Bachelor level degree. 

Upon completion of their degree BSc some students have gone on to work in a variety of roles including graduate programmer, software developer or engineer, consultant, new media programmer, network analyst, systems analyst, and internet applications developer. For a range of employers, such as: Capgemini, Microsoft, Toyota, Unisys, Coca-Cola, IBM UK, Ford, Hewlett Packard, Logica CMG, HSBC, and PCMS.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Why study the foundation programme in engineering and physical sciences at aston university.

If you don’t currently have the grades or subjects to progress straight onto an undergraduate degree programme within the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Aston University, the Foundation Programme will equip you with the ideal base of knowledge to get you into your chosen study and career path.

You’ll be taught by Aston University staff, refining your knowledge, professional and study skills to prepare you for your chosen degree programme. You can choose to then study one of our business or social science programmes, with an integrated placement year, providing you with invaluable work experience, and even onto a Masters programme.

How will I study on the Foundation Programme?

Students will receive timetables that details the room and time of each subject. Each module will have a lecture that is delivers course content to all the students and seminar in smaller groups to provide more focused skills required for each module. Each module will have a total of four hours of teaching each week.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

• Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife.  Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
• Fantastic food.  Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
• World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
• Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
• Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
• Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham

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