Digital Information Technology(ECS) A.K.A. Exploring Computer Science

Syllabus This course is a yearlong, entry-level course that introduces the foundations of Computer Science. This course is designed to introduce the breadth of the field of computer science through an exploration of engaging and accessible topics. This course does not focus on learning any specific programming languages or software tools. Rather the course is designed to focus on the conceptual ideas of computing and to help students understand why certain tools or languages might be utilized to solve particular problems. Class participation, self-reflection, observation, projects, quizzes, tests and peer evaluation will be used to evaluate students’ successful progress in the course. Many of the assignments require group work. You must actively participate in class to get a passing grade.

Classroom Expectations You are expected to show up to class on time every single day ready to work. Take ownership for your learning and responsibility for your actions. Be respectful of yourself, others and the environment. There will be no food and drink allowed in the classroom area. Do NOT leave the classroom without permission and a pass. If you are confused about what you are supposed to be doing, ask me or a fellow classmate. Don’t sit there and do nothing. You MUST actively participate in your group and in class to receive a grade. Be courteous, sharing and helpful with equipment to fellow classmates. If you know something that another student is struggling with, help them out.

Overview of the Course In this course we will learn many different fundamental topics in Computer Science through a series of Plugged(Computer) and Unplugged(No Computer) activities. There will be many assignments that will require group work, so active participation is a must. Some of your grade will be determined by your other group members. There will be various paper based quizzes and tests throughout the year testing your knowledge about particular computing concepts. This course will be split into at least five units: Human Computer Interaction, Problem Solving, Web Design, Introduction to Programming, and Computing and Data Analysis. At the end of each unit there will be a project assigned for you to complete. You will have plenty of warning about your project before it is due.

Questions Any questions about the course? Any questions for me? Any random questions?

Warm-up Activity(10) On a piece of paper answer the question: How many computers are in the room? Give your best estimate, count around. Also list the different types of computers After about 5 minutes discuss your ideas with your elbow partner(the person next to you) and compare your findings. Share some of your interpretations out loud.

Exploring Computers(Activity-60) Combine into groups of 4(5 if need be). Discuss additional examples of computers(or things containing computers) with everyone in your group. Write your examples down on a piece of paper. After about 5-10 minutes I will let certain groups present their ideas to the class. Question the presenters about why they chose the specific projects. Why is that a computer, explain? Discuss CP(data collection)

Classification of Computing Groups Discuss with your group possible classifications for each item in the list. Create a new list with the various items listed under the group classification.(abs.) Think about the questions: What is a computer? What is computing? Using your list of computers and the classifications(abs.) you made try to answer those questions. Share Remember there many different types of computers and classifications

Computer Buying Project Assignment Each student will interview a family member or friend to find out what features that person would like to have if they were buying a computer. Then research a computer they might like to buy based on your findings. Think about questions like: What will be the uses of the computer? What are the space constraints? What is your price range? Do you want a Mac, PC, other? Do you want a laptop, desktop, tablet, two-in-one? What type of graphics card do you want? How much RAM do you want? Explain your findings in a couple of paragraphs. Describe what you asked and why you chose that specific computer. Side question: What is RAM? Research on your own.