BCIT

K-12 Coordinator: Jerry Albrecht

The purpose of the Business, Computers and Information Technology Department is to prepare students for the changing world of technology, how it integrates with everyday life, and the economic environment in which they live and work.

The courses offered in the business and computer fields are designed to benefit students who are college-bound as well as career-bound. Students will have the opportunity to develop proficiency in document preparation, computer software applications, computer programming, game design, web page design, application of accounting concepts, interpreting financial data, personal financial management, interpretation of business and personal law, management, communication technology, video production, analysis of economic market, and career experience. These proficiencies will assist students whose future career plans include: accounting, office administration, computer-science/information, web page design, criminal justice/law, financial/investment management, human resources/personnel management, international business, management, marketing, and public relations careers.

Pennsylvania BCIT Standards, Pennsylvania Career Education and Work Standards, Pennsylvania Science and Technology Standards, and National Business Education Standards are reflected in all Business, Computer and Information Technology courses.

ACADEMIC SEMINAR (REQUIRED)

Grade 9

BCI111 0.5 credit

Academic Seminar provides skills necessary to succeed at WTHS and beyond. The course combines technological, organizational, and study skills in order to create well-rounded students capable of self-reliance, self-advocacy, and resiliency. The Academic Seminar emphasizes utilization of, and participation in, WTHS resources and programs. The course is organized into several important units designed to prepare students for success, as follows:

Technology -- Students will create and use professional and educational documents and files utilizing Microsoft Office and Google Docs in order to acclimate the students to life at WTHS (clubs, activities, organizational opportunities).

Career Pathway/Interest Study -- Students will explore the U.S. Government’s Sixteen Career Clusters, focusing on career requirements, job outlook, educational training, and potential earnings. Using Naviance software, students will be tested on career interests, learning styles, and personality strengths to correlate possible career paths for students.

Digital Literacy -- Students will explore emerging computer literacy issues including social networking, cyber bullying, copyright laws, texting, and the impact of a “digital footprint.”

Student Skills and Organization -- Students will explore skills for success: methods of note-taking, organization, studying, as well as techniques for developing resilience, time-management, and confidence. Students will be encouraged participation in multiple school events and organizations.

NOTE: Since these are critical skills students will need to succeed in high school and beyond, this course is required of all ninth-grade students.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES

Grade 10-12

BCI709 1.0 credit

This course was developed by the College Board to address a critical need for a broader range of students to gain exposure to computing in high school. Multidisciplinary in nature, the course teaches students to analyze problems, use creative thinking, and collaborate to investigate solutions to real-word issues using computing. AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. With a unique focus on creative problem solving and real-world applications, AP Computer Science Principles prepares students for college and careers in the 21st century. Whether it’s 3D animation, engineering, music, app development, medicine, visual design, robotics, or political analysis, computer science is the engine that powers the technology, productivity, and innovation that drive the world. Computer science experience has become an imperative for today’s students and the workforce of tomorrow.

A student who successfully completes a course in computer science or information technology during grades nine through twelve shall be permitted to apply up to one credit earned for successful completion of such course to satisfy the student’s mathematics or science credit requirement for graduation, provided, that the governing body of the student’s public high school shall have discretion to determine the graduation credit requirement to which the credit earned by the student shall be applied.

NOTE: Students are strongly encouraged to schedule and take the Advanced Placement examination administered by the College Board.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE A

Grade 11-12

BCI707 1.0 credit

Is computer science/technology your passion? Do you see yourself preparing for a career in information technology? This AP course is a wise choice not only for those interested in the field of Information Technology, but also for anyone who aspires to be on the management team of any business, educational, charitable, or private organization. In today’s world of technology, managers must be able to communicate with computer science/information technology personnel to develop programs together. It is just as important to understand the benefits and limits of technology as it is to be able to write the code that runs today’s world. This course is designed to prepare students to succeed when taking the AP Computer Science-A exam. Students will learn how to design computer programs in order to solve problems. This Advanced Placement course focuses on programming: algorithms and design; Java basics: control statements; object-oriented programming, software engineering; arrays and GUI programming basics and component layout.

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Intro to Programming and/or AP Computer Science Principles is strongly recommended.

NOTE: Students are strongly encouraged to schedule and take the Advanced Placement examination administered by the College Board.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT MICROECONOMICS

Grade 10-12

BCI708 1.0 credit

Are you fascinated by financial systems, and the complex workings of our economy? This course is designed for the purpose of preparing students to succeed when taking the AP Microeconomics course. The focus is to provide a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers, both consumers and producers, within the larger economic system. It places primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets, and includes the study of factor markets and the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy.

NOTE: Students are strongly encouraged to schedule and take the Advanced Placement examination administered by the College Board.

THE ACCOUNTING PROGRAM FOR BUILDING THE PROFESSION

(This course qualifies for dual enrollment)

Grade 10-12

BCI509 1.0 credit

Are you interested in taking a college-level course? Do you have an interest in Accounting or Business Management? If so, this course is for you. It is equivalent to an introductory college-level Accounting course. Students will acquire financial knowledge and analytical skills by exploring topics that include both financial and managerial accounting and financial statement analysis. This course takes an integrated approach to examining how accounting impacts the overall decision-making process within a business.

NOTE: In addition to the dual enrollment agreement with Gwynedd-Mercy University, Bucks County Community College is offering our students who successfully complete this course and register at BCCC the opportunity to earn 3 college credits by testing out of Introductory Accounting (ACCT090). BCCC requirements are to score a minimum of 70% on the CREX (Challenge by Examination) exam and a $75 fee. In addition to passing the CREX, students will have the opportunity to earn 4 college credits by testing out of Principles of Accounting I (ACCT100). BCCC requirements are to score a minimum of 50 on the CLEP (College Level Examination Program) exam and fee.

ACCOUNTING I

Grade 10-12

BCI507 1.0 credit

Accounting is the language of business. Students will learn both manual and computer- based accounting procedures including analyzing, interpreting, and reporting financial business transactions. These procedures will be explored using QuickBooks. This course is designed for students who are college bound in a business-related field such as Accounting, Business Administration, Marketing, Finance or Management. Students who are career bound will acquire the necessary skills to obtain employment in an entry-level office/accounting position.

MARKETING MANAGEMENT

(This course qualifies for dual enrollment)

Grade 10-12

BCI506 1.0 credit

Do you have what it takes to run a professional sports franchise? Can you manage a distribution company and handle all the decision making responsibilities? This comprehensive Marketing course is designed for students considering a career in business. Using the Virtual Business-Sports and Virtual Business-Management simulations, the students will learn critical marketing and management skills, including specific lessons regarding business locations, ticket pricing, market research, player management, sponsorship, licensing, promotions, distribution, sales/logistics, risk management, and employee supervision. The students will learn business development strategies while developing a product from the idea phase through research, development, and production. The students will rotate through the following clusters to get a full business experience: Finance, Marketing/Advertising, Production/Quality Control/Sales, Information Technology, Human Resources/Legal, and Public Relations. The project-based curriculum will reinforce the planning, implementation, and analysis phase of business operations, while focusing on the importance of time- management and accuracy in completing business tasks. Professional interaction with members of the local business community, via guest speakers and/or partnership development will enhance the student’s “real world” business experience.

FASHION MARKETING & MERCHANDISING

Grade 10-12

BCI512 0.5 credit

This course is designed to prepare students for careers related to working within the Fashion and Marketing industries. This course will give students the opportunity to explore their creativity and the fashion industry. Students will learn about the history of fashion and study the process from design concept, construction of products, distribution, and retail sales. Students will be exposed to the inner workings of the fashion world through the opportunity to work Philadelphia Fashion Week, as well as other hands-on, real-world experiences that will familiarize them with numerous career paths available to people skilled in the merchandising and marketing of fashion and fashion-related products and services. Students will be made aware of opportunities in window display, exhibition design, retailing, wholesaling, product development and advertising.

Lab Fee: $20

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM

Grade 10-12

BCI512 0.5 credit

Do you want to be a world traveler? This project-based course is designed to introduce students to the global world of the hospitality and tourism industries. This course focuses on the various marketing aspects of the hospitality and tourism industries, including: lodging, international travel, hotel/restaurant management, tourism, and the promotion of entertainment events. The curriculum is supplemented by a Virtual Business-Hotel simulation, where students will manage the operational aspects of business ownership (location, design, purchasing, pricing, advertising, staffing, layout, etc.). Students will make all of the decisions necessary to manage a high-end hotel. Students will also research career opportunities, interact with industry professionals, and complete hands-on projects designed to implement the skills necessary for success in these exciting industries!

Lab Fee: $20

PERSONAL FINANCE & MONEY MANAGEMENT

Grade 11-12

BCI705 0.5 credit

Are you ready to take control of your own financial well-being? This course is designed to give the student a practical understanding of the financial world as it affects everyday living. This includes units on budgeting, personal banking, investments (stocks, bonds and mutual funds), insurance and risk management, credit, home

purchasing, retirement, taxes, and consumer decision-making. These critical financial skills will be reinforced through the use of an interactive simulation, Virtual Business-Finance. The class will examine current and historic economic conditions and their relationship to the financial world. The students will complete research projects on actual investment opportunities. Students will have the opportunity to compete in the Stock Market Game Simulation. The simulation is an internet-driven educational tool that affords students the opportunity to engage in real- time trading with a $100,000 investment base. The Stock Market Game unit culminates with a written prospectus where the students outline their financial experiences and future plans.

EXPLORING BUSINESS

Grade 9-12

BCI102 0.5 credit

Would you like to run your own virtual retail business? This course is an exploratory course for students who are considering a career in the world of business. The course examines the current state of the economy and its relation to business. Students will learn to use VB-Retail, which is a software-based simulation of a convenience store that helps students learn and apply the basic fundamentals of pricing, purchasing, marketing, promoting, merchandising, and financial statements. This course is project-based and concludes with the preparation and completion of a business plan.

INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING

Grade 10-12

BCI601 0.5 credit

Do you want to learn how to read and write code? This course is designed to develop both an appreciation and application for programming through web-page design. Students will be exposed to various programming languages, including HTML and JavaScript, and create both independent and self-guided projects with the help of digital and text tutorials. This course is self-paced and provides an opportunity for everyone to learn to code. What are you waiting for?

GAME DESIGN & APP DEVELOPMENT

Grade 10-12

BCI602 0.5 credit

Are you interested in game design and app development? If so consider taking this course and join the millions of developers who are using Unity to create interactive applications and games. Unity is a cross-platform game engine, first introduced in 2005, that supports both 2D and 3D graphics, drag and drop functionality, and programming through C#. Students will also explore app development through Android Studio, an integrated development environment (IDE) first introduced in May 2013. This course provides an opportunity for students to personalize their learning and permits learner individuality within a supportive, risk-taking environment.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Grade 10-12

BCI510 0.5 credit

Are you an inventor or innovator? This course is designed to help students evaluate the business skills and commitment necessary to successfully operate an entrepreneurial venture and review the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. In this introductory business course, students learn the basics of planning and launching their own successful business. They will explore techniques for generating new business ideas, attracting investors, marketing their business, and managing expenses. Students will examine successful entrepreneurs who have turned their ideas into reality, and then they will plan and execute their own business development model. This course is supported by interactive Virtual Business Entrepreneurship simulation software.

CAREER WORK EXPERIENCE, INTERNSHIP & the WILLIAM TENNENT COMMERCE CENTER are career exploration and development courses that are a component of the BCIT department curriculum. Students can explore careers in authentic settings created within the school or in community placements sponsored by local businesses and organizations.

INTERNSHIP

Grade 11-12

BCI801 0.5 credit

The William Tennent Internship Program is a career exploration experience. The design of the program is to integrate school-based learning into work-based situations. Students will be provided with academic and occupational skills necessary to succeed in the present workplace. The Internship Program will operate under the direction of the William Tennent Career Exploration Program and may include the participation of local businesses. The program is a collaborative school-business partnership that exposes a small number of highly motivated students to a variety of careers. The students may select to shadow representatives of the business partner in the workplace or participate in a school-based initiative. The students will be responsible for journaling and completing a career development curriculum. The Internship Program is also involved with the planning and execution of other school events, clubs, and activities.

CAREER WORK EXPERIENCE

Grade 12

BCI802 1.0 credit

The Career Work Experience Program is a career-related, employment opportunity. The design of the program is to offer the student the opportunity to develop academic and occupational skills while functioning as a paid employee. Each student will be required to maintain paid employment and follow the guidelines set forth in the CWE application and the individual training Agreement. Students will be responsible for obtaining their own employment, providing their own transportation, journaling about their experiences, and preparing a personal career development portfolio. Students will focus on the workplace skills that are applicable to their individual career choices. The selection process includes the completion of the CWE application and an interview with CWE staff. The student must meet all the requirements as stated in the application in order to participate in and complete the program.

COMMERCE CENTER

Grade 10-12

BCI803 1.0 credit

Are you interested in learning about banking? Are you an entrepreneur at heart? Come with your talents and leadership skills and join our team. You will love this! This course is a hands-on exciting opportunity to blend the elements of financial banking, business management, leadership, retail sales, real-world responsibility with practical work experiences, and entrepreneurship. Under the direction of the Business, Computer and Information Technology Department, students will be actively involved in the direct, daily operations: creating, managing, advertising, and delivering a variety of services that will benefit and support school-wide activities through the WTHS COMMERCE CENTER. The WTHS COMMERCE CENTER will include community partnership development, a school store, a school-based banking branch and a functional ShopRite Junior. Join our team and see where your talents can best be utilized! The selection process includes the completion of an application and an interview. The interview may include school and workplace personnel.

BCIT TRANSITIONAL OFFICE SKILLS COURSE I AND II

Grades 9-12

BCI900 & BCI901 1.0 Credit

The BCIT Transitional Skills Program is designed as an outcome-oriented process which offers multi-year, multi-level individualized hands-on learning activities in a skill-based, career development environment. This unique, specially designed curriculum will engage students in meaningful educational experiences as a component of their transition goals, preparing them for the transition to post-secondary education/training, employment and independent living.

These goals will be implemented in a professional development workplace competency-based environment. Students will develop work skills in the community and school settings that will prepare them to be competitive in the search for employment.

PREREQUISITE: Recommendation by the student’s IEP team.