TECHNOLOGY/BUSINESS DEPARTMENT
TECHNOLOGY/BUSINESS DEPARTMENT
The mission of the Central Catholic Technology/Business Department is to build a solid foundation in technology skills and business principles that will prepare the student for post secondary study, entry-level business careers, or general knowledge in adherence with the mission of Central Catholic High School. Students are required to take at least one semester (0.5 credit) from our technology department to graduate. Students come to Central Catholic High School with a variety of experiences and education in technology. For this reason, Central Catholic High School provides two options for students to earn their technology credit:
1. Introduction to Computer Science
2. AP Computer Science Principles
3. Electronic Music
4. Robotics
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 0.5
This semester course meets the technology requirement for all students. The course focuses on problem solving techniques, programming methodologies, software design processes, features of JavaScript programming language, simple data structures, algorithms, and responsible use of computer systems. Students will be able to interpret existing programs, their design, and their development.
Credit Status: Requirement
Grade Level: 10-12
Credit: 1.0
AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cyber security concerns, and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artifacts for both self-expression and problem solving. Together, these aspects of the course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to broaden participation in computer science.
Credit Status: Elective
This class may be taken to meet the requirement for Introduction to Computer Science
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I, application
Grade Level: 10-12
Credit: 0.5
Entrepreneurship is a course for visionary students who want to develop entrepreneurial skills for the 21st century marketplace. Students will evaluate their potential for work in the for-profit or non-profit sectors and focus on: strategic foresight, design thinking, innovation, emerging technologies, problem solving, leadership, collaboration, and marketing. They will develop a product or service idea (which could range from publishing an app to publishing a novel) that falls within their interests and skill sets. They will learn to build a business and marketing plan in order to fully develop their idea. In the process, students will have opportunities to establish working relationships with the greater Central Catholic community and industry professionals in the Portland-area.
Credit Status: Elective
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 0.5
This semester course meets the technology requirement for all students. Electronic Music I introduces students to electronic music production and composition using the digital audio software “Reason.” Through hands-on, project-based learning, students create original music using MIDI, digital instruments, sampling, and effects. Prior musical knowledge is not required. Alongside music production skills, students explore computer science concepts such as how digital systems process audio, how algorithms generate musical patterns, and how data is used to control sound and structure compositions. Students develop problem-solving skills by testing, refining, and documenting their artistic work, culminating in a portfolio of original electronic music projects. This course integrates computer science standards through algorithmic design, data analysis, programming, and system modeling within a digital music creation environment.
Credit Status: Elective
Dual Credit Option: 3 PCC credits (MUS 170)
This class may be taken to meet the requirement for Introduction to Computer Science
Electronic music courses are highly recommended to be taken consecutively. Artistic skills are best reinforced through consistent immersion and practice.
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 1.0
Robotics is a year-long engineering course that provides students with experiences in engineering, robotics, programming, and game-based learning. The course gives students authentic, real-world learning experiences. Working as part of a team, students use what they learn to research and design an innovative solution to a real-world problem. At the same time, students will work in teams to build their own game-ready robot to show off at an event at the end of the course. Students practice 21st-century skills like technical writing, presentation skills, communication, project management, collaboration, and teamwork.
Credit Status: Elective