Technology

Grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 – 0.5 credit (Elective)

Introduction to Computer Science is designed to introduce students to the principles of computer science. Through the Snap! graphical programming tool, students become familiar with procedural logic used in programming in a collaborative and engaging environment. The course will also develop the practices of algorithm development, problem solving, and computational thinking. As part of this course, students will delve into device programming, will use the EarSketch tool to compose music, and will research current social and ethical issues in computer science. It is recommended that students enrolling in this course have a curiosity for learning and the willingness to be persistent problem solvers. Students successfully completing this course will be prepared for the Computer Science: Python course.

Grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 – 0.5 credit (Elective)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Computer Science or teacher approval

Python is a versatile, beginner-friendly language, suitable for the projects of this course but also widely used by business, science, and technology firms for large applications. This course extends the skills previously learned using Snap! to a formatted, text-based language. The curriculum includes practice writing programs for data analysis and visualization, game development, and device programming. About 75% of student time is spent in hands-on labs to practice skills, and every unit ends with a comprehensive project. The semester concludes with students designing and implementing a medium-to-large scale project of their own choosing. Students successfully completing this course will be prepared for the AP Computer Science Applications course.

Grades 10, 11 or 12 – 1.0 credit (Elective)

AP Computer Science Principles is designed to be equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course that introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. In this course, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems that impact their community, society and world.

Grades 11 or 12 – 1.0 credit (Elective)
Note: This is a weighted course.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Computer Science Python or AP CSP

Computer Science A (CSA) introduces students to software engineering and object-oriented programming and design using the Java programming language. This curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including the design of solutions to problems, the use of data structures to organize large sets of data, the development and implementation of algorithms to process data and discover new information, the analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing systems.

Grades 11 or 12 – 0.5 credit (Elective)
Note: This is a weighted course.
Note: Students taking this course have the option to earn college credit through Cardinal Stritch University (CSU). In order to earn college credit, students must register with CSU, pay a $399 enrollment fee with CSU, and earn a grade of C or higher.

Modern techniques in web page analysis and design are used to create, maintain, and enhance Web pages. Issues of consistency, usability, interactivity, accessibility, and uniformity in the organization of the layout design are covered in addition to mark-up languages and client scripting. This course may be used toward an advanced core certificate.

Grade 9 – 0.5 credit (Required)

Computer Literacy and Applications is a comprehensive course designed to equip students with fundamental computer skills essential for navigating modern technology. The course covers a wide range of topics, from basic computer operations to practical applications in various software and proficiency in using computers for productivity, communication, and problem solving in both personal and professional settings. Students will also learn necessary skills on how to navigate technology in a safe, responsible, and respectful way.

Grade 10,11, or 12 – 0.5 credit (Elective)

In this S.M.A.R.T. (Skills Boss, Mechatronics, Automation, Robotics, Tools) course, students will create products using a variety of machines by rotating through the following units: turning, milling, CNC, cutting, automation, mechatronics, and 3-D printing. Students will have the opportunity to program an industrial digital computer to control a robot. Students will also learn how modernized manufacturing enables “SMART Factories” that share data between machines to facilitate “shop floor analytics” for efficient troubleshooting and better decision making. Students will have the opportunity to earn an industry credential recognizing their ability to troubleshoot issues that may arise with the operation of both manual and automated machines.

Grade 10,11, or 12 – 0.5 credit (Elective)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of SMART Manufacturing 1.0

In this S.M.A.R.T.2.0 course, students will learn Manufacturing Processes & Production, Additional CPT Training, Advanced Shopbot Desktop CNC, Hands on Robotics, Hands on Skill Boss Mechatronics, Additional Automation Sensors, Advanced Laser Engraving, Excelled 3D Design, and MakerBot 3D printing. Students will also learn about modernized manufacturing. Students will have the opportunity to earn an industry credential recognizing their ability to work with Industry 4.0 Technologies and Manufacturing Processes & Production. After the successful completion of this course, students will have an understanding of the disciplines that underpin Industrial 4.0 success and can receive a Certified Production Technician (CPT) ® Manufacturing Processes & Production Certification. This is an internationally recognized certification for students who demonstrate mastery of the core competencies of Industry 4.0 and advanced manufacturing production.