Courses
Intro to Computer Science
Course Number: 6980
Length: 1 semester
Credit: 1/2 credit
Students will learn how to design and code computer applications. Example coding projects include video games, smartphone apps, controlling virtual robots, text-based programs, and webpages. Some of the programming languages used are Scratch, Java, and HTML. Intro to Computer Science is project-based, meaning no tests or quizzes. This course assumes a strong math background. No previous programming experience is required or expected.
Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science (APCS): Java
Course Number: 6990
Length: 1 year
Credit: 1 credit
Final Assessment: AP Exam in May
Prerequisite: Intro to Computer Science or AP Computer Science Principles or Instructor’s Permission
AP Computer Science Java teaches object-oriented programming using the Java language and is meant to be the equivalent of a first semester, college-level course in computer science. It will emphasize problem solving and algorithm development, and use hands-on experiences and examples so that students can apply programming tools and solve complex problems. Case studies will be used throughout the course to expose students to programs written by more experienced programmers and to put the concepts studied into context. This course assumes some previous experience in coding, whether it be a Computer Science course at J-D or some other comparable experience.
Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science Principles (APCSP)
Course Number: 6991
Length: 1 year
Credit: 1 credit
Final Assessment: AP Exam in May
Prerequisite: Students must have a strong math background and have completed Algebra 1 Regents.
AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles will give students the opportunity to use technology to address real world problems and build relevant solutions.
Note: No previous programming experience is required.
Studio Computer Science
Course Number: 6981
Length: 1 semester
Credit: 1/2 credit
Prerequisite: Any Computer Science course at J-D (Intro to Computer Science, AP Computer Science: JAVA, or AP Computer Science Principles)
Students will design and implement computer-based projects of their choice. Industry-accepted software engineering practices, such as design and testing, will be taught and used. Students will be expected to complete 1-2 projects per marking period. Any programming language, development environment, or hardware may be used to fit project goals. Time will be given to learn new languages or technologies, if needed. Example projects include video games, artificial intelligence, simulations, machine learning, smartphone apps, Raspberry Pi, and code-controlled robots. This course is meant to give time and creative freedom for students to complete larger-scale coding projects that are not possible in other computer science courses.