Computer Science Instruction
We believe that students are digital natives who must learn to harness the power of technology to solve the problems of today and tomorrow. As the foundation for all computing, computer science is “the study of computers and algorithmic processes, including their principles, their hardware and software designs, their applications, and their impact on society”. Each and every student will engage in computer science in ways that are creative, interactive, and expressive. Students will develop a foundation of computer science knowledge and learn new approaches to problem solving that harness the power of computational thinking to become both users and creators of computing technology. By applying computer science as a tool for learning and expression in a variety of disciplines and interests, students will actively participate in a world that is increasingly influenced by technology.
At PPS, we know the importance of early engagement with science and technology. By applying computer science as a tool for learning and expression in a variety of disciplines and interests, students will actively participate in a world that is increasingly influenced by technology.
Guiding Principles:
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PPS students will engage in activities that expose them to the idea that computing is a creative experience and powerful tool for personal expression.
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PPS students will write programs using code, solve applied problems and use computer science skills to enhance learning experiences in other disciplines.
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PPS students will use computer programs to analyze data and make connections across disciplines.
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PPS students will have access to introductory and advanced computer science classes that prepare them for college-level computer science work.
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PPS students will engage in computer science activities that empower them to develop essential skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and perseverance.
Practices:
- Teachers will develop CSTA and ISTE (Computational Thinking and Innovative Designer) Standard aligned units of study that will engage students with important computer science concepts.
- Teachers will create engaging activities that promote computational thinking and expose students to the idea that computing is a creative experience and a powerful tool for personal expression.
- Teachers will use a variety of logical (computational thinking) discourse strategies with students to get them to think in steps and to respond to each other’s thinking.
- Students will collaborate with peers to define problems, identify solutions, and reflect on the process.
- Students will identify different strategies used to solve problems.
- Students will publish or present content that customizes the message and medium for their intended audience.
- Students will communicate what information or experiences they need to move their thinking forward.
- Students will use computational thinking methods to solve problems.
Definitions
Students will write programs using code, solve applied problems and use computer science skills to enhance learning experiences in other disciplines.
Students will publish or present content that customizes the message and medium for their intended audience.