AP Computer Science A course introduces the key concepts of programming in Java. The analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills that students develop in this course transfer to programming in other languages as well. This course is designed with the idea that programming should be fun, engaging, and intuitive. Students work creatively and collaboratively with their classmates to discuss ethical and social issues relating to the use of technology and develop a solid foundation from which to launch into a wide range of computer science areas. 

This course investigates the “big ideas” found in our digital world. Using the Python programming language, students develop and demonstrate fundamental concepts of computer programming that can be applied across a variety of projects and languages. Students explore different means of representing information digitally and how our digital world has evolved. Students discuss the current state of technology and its role in our everyday lives, discerning the positive and negative influences of innovations concerning computer and network technologies to society, culture, and economics.

Beginning with AI’s foundation in data science, this course explores the world of AI, its key technologies, and the concerns guiding its use. Students model machine learning algorithms using block-based and Python programming languages, and design intelligent agents to solve real-world problems. Students leave this course having gained an understanding of how AI can help us make better decisions and build “smarter” technology.

Foundations of Innovation (FOI) is an elective designed to help students develop an understanding of Design Thinking principles and the power of innovation to change their world. FOI provides experiences that help students see value in how their creative ideas can bring about change. It lays the groundwork for transformative innovation by building a foundation of innovative Design Thinking skills.

The goal of this course is to introduce students to some of the major areas of computer science as well as develop their programming skills to produce useful solutions and creative artifacts. Students learn fundamental computer programming concepts using a simple but powerful block-based programming language. Students then explore a Java-like language that incorporates an electronic sketchbook with graphics, animation, and object-oriented programming concepts, while utilizing a more traditional, text-based coding methodology.