The College Board launched AP Computer Science Principles (APCSP) in 2016. APCSP is designed to introduce students to the foundational concepts in the computing and challenges students to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. As stated in the APCSP Course Description:
Computer science involves problem-solving, hardware, and algorithms that help people utilize computers and incorporate multiple perspectives to address real-world problems in contemporary life. As the application of computer science is integrated into more aspects of our lives, it is important to understand the impact of computer science and how to maintain privacy, safety, and security not only when using computers but also while being the innovators of new computing applications. The course strives to engage all students, including those who have traditionally been underrepresented in computer science—such as female students, students of color, students with disabilities, and rural students—by allowing them to discover the power of computer science through rewarding yet challenging concepts.
Culturally Authentic Practices (CAPs) focused on student voice and choice and APCSP are a natural fit. By linking student interests and experiences with design based projects, the abstract concepts embedded in computer science are brought to life in an engaging, relevant and culturally authentic classroom. Course content based upon APCSP standards is delivered under an ARC topic that is selected by each student. Student teams are then formed around common topics and AGILE development strategies are utilized to facilitate project completions throughout the course. Design thinking is used in the second semester in combination with AGILE development to code music related to the ARC topic or the instructor can choose to have other clients (i.e. student organizations, school partners,...) for unit 6 and 7 during the second semester. Unit 8 is a jukebox project that is used in unit 9 to practice the Create Task in preparation for this task in the AP CSP Exam.
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