Coding · 3rd Year · Developing Software for Societal Impact · 4.º Período

Finalise Your CBA

Review and finalise your Classroom-Based Assessment (CBA) portfolio before the final submission deadline.

TL;DR:The final stage of the 3rd Year Coding course is the completion of the Classroom-Based Assessment (CBA). This topic focuses on finalizing the portfolio, ensuring all learning outcomes are evidenced, and reflecting on the journey from problem to solution. This aligns with NCCA Learning Outcomes 3.5 and 3.6, which emphasize communication and reflection.

• NCCA Curriculum Specifications
• NCCA Coding Short Course LO 3.5
• NCCA Coding Short Course LO 3.6

About This Topic

The final stage of the 3rd Year Coding course is the completion of the Classroom-Based Assessment (CBA). This topic focuses on finalizing the portfolio, ensuring all learning outcomes are evidenced, and reflecting on the journey from problem to solution. This aligns with NCCA Learning Outcomes 3.5 and 3.6, which emphasize communication and reflection.

Students must be able to explain not just what they built, but why it matters and how it connects to the history of computing. This is a time for synthesis and pride. This topic benefits from peer-review sessions and 'mock presentations' where students practice articulating the social value of their code, helping them feel confident before their final submission.

Key Questions

1. How does our software address the original social problem?
2. What historical technological advancements made this project possible?
3. How can we effectively communicate the social value of our code?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

The CBA is only about the final code working perfectly.

What to Teach Instead

Clarify that the NCCA assessment values the *process* and *reflection* as much as the product. Use a sample portfolio to show how documenting mistakes and changes can actually lead to a better grade.

Common Misconception

I don't need to explain the history or ethics in my final report.

What to Teach Instead

Remind students that the Coding Short Course is about 'Computing and Society.' Use a checklist to ensure they have linked their project back to the pioneers and ethical issues they studied in earlier units.

Active Learning Ideas

Peer Teaching

The CBA Pitch

Students have three minutes to 'pitch' their project to a small group, explaining the problem, their solution, and the social impact. Peers provide feedback on how clearly the student communicated their ideas.

40 min·Small Groups

Gallery Walk

Portfolio Showcase

Students display their final code and reflections on their screens. The class moves around, leaving 'positive praise' and 'thoughtful questions' on cards for each project to celebrate their hard work.

35 min·Whole Class

Think-Pair-Share

The Reflection Loop

Students look back at their very first code from 1st Year. They discuss with a partner how their skills and their understanding of technology's role in society have changed over the three years.

25 min·Pairs

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in my final CBA portfolio?

Your portfolio should include your problem statement, your design (flowcharts/prototypes), your final code, evidence of testing and feedback, and a personal reflection on what you learned and the social impact of your work.

How do I explain the 'social value' of my code?

Focus on the 'who' and the 'how'. Who does your app help? How does it make their life easier, safer, or more connected? Use specific examples from your testing to show that your app actually works for its intended audience.

How can active learning help students finalize their CBA?

Active learning, particularly through 'Peer Pitching' and 'Gallery Walks,' helps students find the right words to describe their work. By explaining their project to others, they identify the most important points and gain the confidence needed to write a strong final reflection. It turns the solitary task of writing a report into a collaborative celebration.

What happens after I submit my CBA?

Your teacher will assess your work based on the NCCA Features of Quality. You will receive a descriptor (like 'Exceptional' or 'Above Expectations') that will appear on your Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA) alongside your other subjects.