1. Self-Conception of the Subject and its Contribution to Competency Development

The acquisition, storage, transmission, and systematic processing of information are characteristics of a modern information society. The subject of Computer Science (Informatik) makes an important contribution to the further development of logical thinking, abstraction skills, and problem-solving abilities. Depending on the course type (T, W, G/S), students deal with computer science in varying intensities (from application-oriented to theoretical). The computer is not only a tool but also the subject of the discipline.

2. Competency Areas

• Modeling and Implementing: Analyzing problems, designing computer science models (e.g., class diagrams, ER diagrams), and their concrete implementation (programming, databases) as well as testing the solutions.
• Justifying and Evaluating: Linking statements through logical reasoning and evaluating facts (e.g., algorithms) based on technical criteria.
• Structuring and Networking: Systematic recording of objects and processes (e.g., Von Neumann architecture) and integration of new content into one’s own knowledge schemas.
• Communicating and Cooperating: Technical communication, information retrieval, and teamwork in software projects.
• Representing and Interpreting: Using diverse forms of representation (flowcharts, structograms) and interpreting them to gain information.

3. Competency Expectations (Course-Specific)

• T-Course: Distinguishing between signs, data, information; applying data types and basic algorithmic building blocks; designing, implementing, and testing programs; understanding computer architecture.
• W-Course: Structuring information as data; creating data models and databases; using query languages; analyzing and representing structures with formalized notations.
• G/S-Course: Distinguishing between signs, data, information; assessing different information representations; independent selection of problem-adequate applications (word processing, spreadsheets).

4. Course Content

a) Basic Content

• Signs, data, and information.
• Data types and data structures.
• Structure of a Von Neumann computer.
• T-Course: Basic algorithmic building blocks, modeling, implementation.
• W-Course: Spreadsheets, databases, data management.
• G/S-Course: Word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software.

b) Possible Differentiations or Extensions

• Formal languages and automata.
• Data protection, data security, legal and ethical aspects.
• Artificial intelligence, cloud computing.
• Project management and software development.
• Computer engineering, robot programming (T-Course).