Case study

For the new IB Diploma Computer Science syllabus to start teaching in August 2025, and for first examinations in May 2027.

Unit and lesson overviews will be gradually published as developed.

Lesson 1: Introduce the case study

  • Read the case study. Highlight and identify key points.

Lesson 2: Understand the text of the case study

  • Prepare definitions for the terminology list provided at the end of the case study.

Lesson 3: Understand the text of the case study

  • Quiz and test yourself and your peers on terminology definitions and introductory concepts.

Lesson 4: Understand the technology in the case study

  • Videos which give an overview/introduction to the technology
  • Newsworthy articles
  • Academic papers eg: arXiv

Lesson 5: Understand the technology in the case study

  • Research

Lesson 6: Understand the technology in the case study

  • Present

Lesson 7: Consider the challenges of the case study

  • Background info on challenge?
  • Why is this a challenge?
  • What are the implications of not being able to meet this challenge?
  • What are some potential solutions to the challenge?
  • Identify real-world examples of the challenge being faced or overcome

Lesson 8: Consider the challenges of the case study

  • Research any background information on the challenge
  • Research and identify real-world examples of the challenges

Lesson 9: Review for exam questions

  • Prepare review notes for challenge 1

Lesson 10: Review for exam questions

  • Prepare review notes for challenge 2

Lesson 11: Practice exam questions

  • Challenge 1

Lesson 12: Practice exam questions

  • Challenge 2

Lesson 13: Practice exam questions

  • Assorted

Marking criteria for the essay question

A top band response requires:

  • Detailed knowledge and clear understanding of the relevant issues and/or concepts.
  • Uses terminology appropriately throughout.
  • Competent and balanced (infers comparison) analysis.
  • Conclusions are drawn that are linked to the analysis.
  • Clear evidence that extensive research has been undertaken.

Note: When seeking to demonstrate research by refering to an academic paper or other document, a common question is how much information needs to be memorised? No, you are not expected to give formal citations. My rule of thumb is: Have you provided enough information that I could find the paper/article if I wanted to? This probably means two out of the three of title/author/year.

Copyright © Paul Baumgarten.