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An Introduction to Computer Networking for Teachers

CO214 Online course

Build your knowledge and understanding of computer networks as a computer science teacher.

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Computer networks Computing Key stage 3 Key stage 4 CS Accelerator
Free online course Approximately 8 hours of self-study

Explore the fundamentals of computer networking with this online course for GCSE teachers. You will improve your understanding of key concepts and gain the confidence to teach the subject in the classroom.

On this course, you will learn to describe the different types of computer networks and understand how data can be transmitted securely. You will cover real world usage of networking technology to enhance your understanding. You will also become more familiar with how the internet works, including routing, DNS, and the World Wide Web.

Who is it for?

This course is for prospective teachers of Key Stage 3 computing and GCSE computer science, who may be new to the subject.

No prior experience or knowledge of computer science is expected before attending this course.

Topics covered

  • Different types of network, including their advantages and disadvantages
  • Data transmission
  • Network protocols
  • How the internet works
  • DNS
  • Packets

How long is this course?

This is approximately 8 hours of self-directed learning.

How will you learn?

This course is not facilitated. You can learn independently or with colleagues to directly address your individual needs.

Outcomes

By the end of the course:

  • Discuss types of network, advantages and disadvantages and general architecture
  • Describe transmission of data (ethernet, wifi) and network protocols (http, ftp, etc)
  • Explore how data can be transmitted securely
  • Apply knowledge of real world usage of the networking technology
  • Describe the internet including routing, DNS and the “world wide web”.
  • Explain how data is encapsulated in an IP packet and a data frame for transmission

This course is part of the Subject knowledge certificate

Subject knowledge certificate

Our professional development programme, Computer Science Accelerator, is designed to help you develop or refresh your subject knowledge and leads to a nationally recognised certificate.

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This course is from the National Centre for Computing Education and is delivered by STEM Learning.

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