Computer Studies/Programming

Computer Studies

Overall Information

Information Technology

Destination: College, University

Overview:

The philosophy guiding the computer studies component of this program revolves around computer programming as reflective of being a “media” for meeting a need for a certain problem. Students are encouraged to develop ideas for applications, then create applications through a pre-planning, create, and debug cycle.

AHS offers students interested in computer studies the opportunity to develop creativity, thinking and planning skills, and creation of computer programs using industry standard programming languages Visual Basic, C, and C++. Visual Basic provides the immediate reward of a fully functional user graphical interfaced program once completed. C and C++ are “line by line” languages which offer the developer more control over the final product on a less graphical basis, but provide a strong background for further studies in Windows application programming, robotics, and automated manufacturing processes. Most post-secondary IT programs use Visual Basic and the C languages, so students continuing in this direction are immediately comfortable when they are introduced at this level.

On the Business side of the program, students become familiar with the components of Microsoft Office – word processing, presentation, spreadsheets, and databases – among other parts of the suite. Once user competency with applications is established, typical business uses for the components of MS Office are introduced. Other business related needs are met through the creation of web sites, the use of case studies, and the promotion of awareness in such areas as ethics, terms, and practices.

In addition to being immediately useful to the student for secondary projects and assignments, knowledge of Microsoft Office may help in attaining summer employment in business related settings and is a feature of most post-secondary business programs.

Student Profile:

• While good mathematics skills are helpful, they are not a necessity for success in these programs.
• Students should enjoy working with computers particularly with regard to solving real world problems.
• Students should desire to develop creativity and planning skills.
• Students should enjoy collaboratively discussing problems and ideas with regard to completion of individual projects.

Upon discovering a strong interest in computer related skills, students should be aware that careful planning toward attaining the pre-requisite courses needed for post-secondary education in these fields is needed.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER STUDIES - ICS2O1

This course introduces students to computer programming. Students will plan and write simple computer programs by applying fundamental programming concepts, and learn to create clear and maintainable internal documentation. They will also learn to manage a computer by studying hardware configurations, software selection, operating system functions, networking, and safe computing practices. Students will also investigate the social impact of computer technologies, and develop an understanding of environmental and ethical issues related to the use of computers. This course offers students the opportunity to develop creativity, thinking and planning skills using the industry standard programming language Visual Basic. Students will use computer programming as a "media" for creating original programs.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE - ICS3U1

This course introduces students to computer science. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields. This course offers students the opportunity to develop creativity, thinking and planning skills using the industry standard C programming language. This course provides a strong background for further studies in Windows and application programming, robotics, and automated manufacturing processes.

COURSE NOTE: Recommendation: TEJ 2O1 or ICS 2O1

Most post-secondary IT programs use C language, so students continuing in this direction are immediately comfortable with this programming language at this level.

Good mathematic skills are helpful, but not a necessity for success in this course.

COMPUTER SCIENCE - ICS4U1

This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyze algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field. This course offers students the opportunity to develop creativity, thinking and planning skills using the industry standard C and C++ programming language. This course provides a strong background for further studies in Windows and application programming, robotics, and automated manufacturing processes.

COURSE NOTE: Most post-secondary IT programs use C and C++ languages, so students continuing in this direction are immediately comfortable with this programming language at this level.

Good mathematic skills are helpful, but not a necessity for success in this course.

PREREQUISITE: ICS3U1 - INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE