Courses
Computing for Educators
Higher Diploma in Science
Course Details
| Course Code | LY_IEDUD_G |
|---|---|
| Level | 8 |
| Duration | Flexible |
| Credits | 60 |
| Method of Delivery | Online |
| Campus Locations | Donegal – Letterkenny |
| Mode of Delivery | Part Time |
Course Overview
RQF Level: 6
This unique course allows educators to engage with material that will provide them with confidence and technical skills to deliver ICT in schools for the 21st century. The modules have been carefully crafted to ensure that educators will be given opportunity to gain proficiency and to derive tangible elements for their own classrooms.
Each module is worth 10 ECT credits and is at Level 8. Educators should take 6 subjects to achieve the Higher Diploma in Computing for Educators.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester 1
Introduction to Coding with Animation and Games
| Module Details | Credits | Mandatory/Elective |
|---|---|---|
| This module will seek to develop the learners’ knowledge of coding principles by using a visual programming environment to create animations and games. This will enable them to teach visual coding at primary and post-primary level. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise the rationale and remit of coding at primary and post-primary level. 2. Apply the principles of sequence, variables, selection, iteration, methods and lists. 3. Animate visual elements using code. 4. Develop a functional computer game which demonstrates knowledge of coding principles. | 10 | Mandatory |
Computer Systems
| Module Details | Credits | Mandatory/Elective |
|---|---|---|
| To provide the learner with a general description of the key hardware components of a generic computer system and how these components interact to produce a functioning computer. To introduce network technologies and standards in order to build data networks. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise the operations that make up the fundamental workings of the computer. 2. Distinguish and evaluate the diverse components of the computer system by their basic function, their internal implementation, their inputs and outputs, and their relationship to each other. 3. Establish and explain the roles of the CPU and the main memory in the context of the overall system and the execution of programs. 4. Appraise the role of the main components of an operating system. 5. Appraise file, memory, process and input-output management techniques. 6. Apply the networking services and protocols for networking and cloud systems. | 10 | Mandatory |
Coding with Syntax
| Module Details | Credits | Mandatory/Elective |
|---|---|---|
| The study of programming and the development of programming competencies are central to learning computer science. This module provides learners with the opportunity to further enhance their knowledge of the core concepts of abstraction, decomposition and algorithmic development. In addition, students will develop the necessary technical competencies required to apply these concepts using a modern programming language to solve non-trivial problems and evaluate their solutions. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply computational thinking to design algorithmic solutions for non-trivial problems. 2. Develop algorithmic solutions by applying a structured approach to problem solving using programming constructs of sequence, selection, repetition, functions, and data types. 3. Utilise data structures to efficiently store, sort and retrieve data. 4. Validate and verify the correctness of a software implementation using modern debugging and testing techniques. 5. Measure and evaluate the algorithmic performance of a software implementation. | 10 | Mandatory |
Semester 2
Software Engineering
| Module Details | Credits | Mandatory/Elective |
|---|---|---|
| Software engineering is an engineering discipline which is concerned with all aspects of software production, it is concerned with theories, methods and tools for professional software development. This module builds on what learners have already covered in previous modules and teaches the discipline of software engineering. Learners will evaluate the engineering methods, processes, techniques and measurements which are part of software engineering. Learning Outcomes 1. Compare and contrast software process models and select a suitable software process model for use on a software project. 2. Evaluate quality in the software process and process improvement initiatives. 3. Appraise software quality models. 4. Establish a software measurement programme. 5. Manage software configuration for a software project. | 10 | Mandatory |
AI Literacy for Educators
| Module Details | Credits | Mandatory/Elective |
|---|---|---|
| This module equips educators with the knowledge and skills to understand AI, teach AI concepts to students, and design assessments that mitigate the misuse of generative AI. The module also covers relevant Irish and European AI legislation, governance, and compliance. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of AI concepts, applications, and limitations, relevant to school education. 2. Draw on contemporary research to explain how AI technologies, including generative AI, operate and shape society. 3. Design and deliver evidence-basedAI-focused lessons for primary and secondary education. 4. Develop a range of coursework and assessment strategies that encourage critical thinking and reduce reliance on AI-generated content. 5. Analyse the global ethical, legal, and governance considerations surrounding AI in education, particularly in the context of Irish and EU regulations. | 10 | Mandatory |
Project Management
| Module Details | Credits | Mandatory/Elective |
|---|---|---|
| This module is designed to teach the essential skills students need to make effective contributions and to have an immediate impact on the accomplishment of projects in which they are involved. Students will learn techniques required to plan, manage and control projects. Learning Outcomes 1. Compare and contrast different approaches to project management. 2. Apply risk management techniques. 3. Appraise techniques used to estimate project cost and duration . 4. Prepare graphical representations to plan and control a project. 5. Compare and contrast team organisations and select a suitable organisation based on project characteristics. | 10 | Mandatory |
Recommended Study Hours per week
Each module has two Saturday live classes. The remaining are reading classes.
Examination and Assessment
100% continuous assessment.
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
All classes are online.
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
A full Level 8 qualification or equivalent or B.Ed. Preference will be given to professionals working in the education sector.
Fees
This programme is offered free to eligible candidates via NW Depth.
Further information on feesFurther Information
Application Closing Date
2nd October 2026
Start Date
12th October 2026
Who Should Apply?
This programme is designed for individuals who have an interest in both education and computing, and who want to develop skills in these fields to pursue a career as an educator in computing, information technology, or related disciplines. Candidates who might be well-suited include teachers or educators, graduates with a non-computing bachelor’s degree, professionals with industry experience and career changers.
Contact Information
Faculty of Engineering & Technology
Department of Computing
Department Administration: +353 (0)74 9186351
Dr Gary Cullen
Lecturer
E: gary.cullen@atu.ie
T: +353 (0)74 9186337
