Applied Technology

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY - Preparing Students for the Future

Technology plays a vital role in nearly every aspect of modern life from business and science to entertainment and communication.  In our Applied Technology Department, students will explore the exciting fields of graphic design, web design, robotics, and computer science, gaining both practical skills and theoretical knowledge to thrive in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world.  

Our mission is to provide students with a solid foundation in applied technology, preparing them for success in postsecondary education and future careers. Through hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving, students will develop technical expertise, critical thinking, and creativity, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the challenges of an evolving digital landscape.  

Courses are designed to integrate technology into engaging classroom activities, teaching students to effectively use essential tools and software.  Emphasis is placed on broad-based skills that are adaptable across industries, along with fostering a mindset of innovation and lifelong learning.  By analyzing and solving complex problems, students will build the confidence and skills necessary to excel in a society increasingly reliant on data and technology.

Let the Applied Technology Department be your gateway to mastering the tools and techniques shaping your future.  

There are three paths in the Applied Technology Department.  Students may choose courses from all three paths or follow one for a concentrated field or career choice.  

Faculty

Mrs. Tamara Endich - Department Chair (Graphic Design, Web Design, Sports Marketing

Mr. Steven Christensen - Computer Science

Ms. Wanda Sylvia - Computer Science

Mr. Kristofer Hansen - Robotics

Technology Track

All Students in 8th Grade

COMPUTER SCIENCE DISCOVERIES  (626)

Grade 8 

(Quarter)

Computer Science Discoveries is an introductory computer science course for all 8th grade students. The course takes a wide lens on computer science by covering topics such as problem solving, programming, physical computing, user centered design, and data, while inspiring students as they build their own websites, apps, animations, games, and physical computing systems.

Topics Include:

• Systems used to represent information in a computer

• Using data to solve problems 

• Computer automation

• Use of Adafruit Circuit Playground, to explore the relationship between hardware and software

• Designing and developing prototypes

Computer Science Pathway

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING EXPLORATION (597)

Grade (8) 

(Quarter) 

Computer Programming Exploration  is designed to introduce students who have completed the 8th grade Discoveries course to explore programming concepts at a deeper level.  Students will dive deeper into AI, more complex levels of coding using Virtual robots and further explore Circuitry. 

The goal of the Computer Programming Exploration course is to develop in students the computational thinking practices of algorithm development, problem solving and programming within the context of problems that are relevant to the lives of today’s students. Students will also be introduced to topics such as interface design, the impact of computers on societal and ethical issues.

INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING (509)

Grades (9-12):  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits

Introduction to Computer Programming is designed to introduce students to the breadth of the field of computer science through an exploration of engaging and accessible topics. Rather than focusing the entire course on learning particular software tools or programming languages, the course is designed to focus the conceptual ideas of computing and help students understand why certain tools or languages might be utilized to solve particular problems. 

The goal of Introduction to Computer Programming is to develop in students the computational thinking practices of algorithm development, problem solving and programming within the context of problems that are relevant to the lives of today’s students. Students will also be introduced to topics such as interface design, limits of computers as well as societal and ethical issues.

Instructional units will include Human Computer Interaction, Problem Solving, Web Design, App design,  Computing and Data Analysis, Robotics, Interface Design, Societal and Ethical Issues.

HONORS COMPUTER SCIENCE (529)

Grades 9-12: Honors

(Semester) .75 credits

Prerequisite:  None but it is suggested that students take Introduction to Programming

Honors Computer Science is offered to students who are motivated and interested in learning how to program. The course is designed to develop and enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on programming projects. Students will be taught the fundamentals of programming, or the basic building blocks found in all languages. Students will be exposed to and learn several programming languages, ranging from web-based, interpreted languages to full, compiled application development. Additionally, the students will learn how to use several industry standard software development packages.

Students planning a career in computer science, engineering, information systems, mathematics, science and business will greatly benefit from taking this course.

Topics include:

• Web languages and design structures

• Scripting languages

• Object-based and Object-Oriented languages

• Binary and hexadecimal number systems

• Writing well-structured code, with good style and documentation.

• Programming building blocks: variables, functions, decision structures, arrays, arithmetic / relational / logical operators, iterative loops, data structures, and error handling.

• The responsible and ethical use of computer systems.

This course is suggested for Advanced Placement Computer Science and Competition Robotics.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES (539)

Grades 11-12:   Advanced Placement

(Year) 1.50 credits

Prerequisites: It is strongly recommended that students have taken a previous computer science course.

The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to be equivalent to a first- semester introductory college computing course. In this course, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems, and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world.

Digital Design Pathway

GRAPHIC DESIGN (527)

Grade (8) 

(Quarter) 

Graphic Design I (8) is an introductory design course that will study visual perception through the use of color, design and typography. Emphasis will be placed on the elements and principles of design, learning how colors interact with each other and the relationships between image and text. This course serves as a foundation to basic design by studying the history of design, learning where we see design, and what makes specific designs successful. Students will maintain a visual portfolio throughout the course where they can document and showcase their work. 

Sketchbooks are encouraged for this course. In your sketchbook you will keep class notes, brainstorm ideas, collect examples and lay out projects. Sketches should be well thought out drawings that take place before you turn to the computer. Please try to date each page as best you can. Doodling in your sketchbook is acceptable and encouraged! You can use a physical sketchbook, or make your notes digitally. 

Please note that this is an art course that will require time and commitment from everyone in the classroom and at home. Creating sketches and designing is the core of this course, that being said - words and shapes thrown onto a computer screen/sketchbook is not a thought out design and you will not receive credit for those assignments.

GRAPHIC DESIGN I (503)

(9-12):  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits

Graphic Design is the study and creation of visual communication. This course will study visual perception through the use of color, design and typography. Through the use of the industry standard Adobe Creative Suite students will learn several skills in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will explore the theories of graphic design while designing and producing several real world projects. Projects include image manipulation and collaging, visual messaging through text and logo design. All students will be required to maintain a digital portfolio where they can store and showcase their work. 

Please note that this is an art course that will require time and commitment from everyone in the classroom and at home. Creating sketches and designing is the core of this course, that being said - words and shapes thrown onto a computer screen/sketchbook is not a thought out design and you will not receive credit for those assignments.

Sketchbooks are encouraged for this course. In your sketchbook you will keep class notes, brainstorm ideas, collect examples and lay out projects. Sketches should be well thought out drawings that take place before you turn to the computer. Please try to date each page as best you can. Doodling in your sketchbook is acceptable and encouraged! You can use a physical sketchbook, or make your notes digitally. 

GRAPHIC DESIGN II (504)

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Graphic Design I

Graphic Design is the study and creation of visual communication. This course will continue to study visual perception through the use of color, design and typography. Through the use of the industry standard Adobe Creative Suite students will expand their working knowledge in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as being introduced to the publishing and layout software InDesign. Students will explore the theories of graphic design while designing and producing several real world projects. Projects include advanced image manipulation, digital illustration and cartooning, and design layout. All students will be required to maintain a digital portfolio where they can store and showcase their work. 

Please note that this is an art course that will require time and commitment from everyone in the classroom and at home. Creating sketches and designing is the core of this course, that being said - words and shapes thrown onto a computer screen/sketchbook is not a thought out design and you will not receive credit for those assignments.

Sketchbooks are encouraged for this course. In your sketchbook you will keep class notes, brainstorm ideas, collect examples and lay out projects. Sketches should be well thought out drawings that take place before you turn to the computer. Please try to date each page as best you can. Doodling in your sketchbook is acceptable and encouraged! You can use a physical sketchbook, or make your notes digitally. 

GRAPHIC DESIGN III (506)

Grades 10-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Graphic Design II

Graphic Design is the study and creation of visual communication. This course will continue to study visual perception through the use of color, design and typography. Through the use of the industry standard Adobe Creative Suite students will expand their working knowledge in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and InDesign, while exploring other programs in the Adobe Creative Suite including Animate, Dreamwever and Lightroom. Students will explore the theories of graphic design while designing and producing several real world projects. Projects include advanced image manipulation, digital illustration and cartooning, animation, motion graphics, and design layout. All students will be required to maintain a digital portfolio where they can store and showcase their work. 

Please note that this is an art course that will require time and commitment from everyone in the classroom and at home. Creating sketches and designing is the core of this course, that being said - words and shapes thrown onto a computer screen/sketchbook is not a thought out design and you will not receive credit for those assignments.

Sketchbooks are encouraged for this course. In your sketchbook you will keep class notes, brainstorm ideas, collect examples and lay out projects. Sketches should be well thought out drawings that take place before you turn to the computer. Please try to date each page as best you can. Doodling in your sketchbook is acceptable and encouraged! You can use a physical sketchbook, or make your notes digitally. 

GRAPHIC and JOURNALISTIC DESIGN (540)

Grades 10-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits

Prerequisite:  Graphic Design II

Graphic Design is the study and creation of visual communication. This course will continue to study visual perception through the use of color, design and typography. Through the use of the industry standard Adobe Creative Suite students will expand their working knowledge in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and InDesign, while exploring other programs in the Adobe Creative Suite including Animate, Dreamwever and Lightroom. Students will explore the theories of graphic design while designing and producing several real world projects. Projects include advanced image manipulation, digital illustration and cartooning, animation, motion graphics, and design layout. All students will be required to maintain a digital portfolio where they can store and showcase their work. 

Please note that this is an art course that will require time and commitment from everyone in the classroom and at home. Creating sketches and designing is the core of this course, that being said - words and shapes thrown onto a computer screen/sketchbook is not a thought out design and you will not receive credit for those assignments.

Sketchbooks are encouraged for this course. In your sketchbook you will keep class notes, brainstorm ideas, collect examples and lay out projects. Sketches should be well thought out drawings that take place before you turn to the computer. Please try to date each page as best you can. Doodling in your sketchbook is acceptable and encouraged! You can use a physical sketchbook, or make your notes digitally. 

SPORTS MARKETING (507) 

Grades 10-12:    Level 2

(Semester)  .5 credits

Prerequisite:  Graphic Design I 

NOT OFFERED 2025-2026

Sports and Entertainment Marketing focuses on promoting Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School High School athletics and events on a school and community level. Students will learn marketing and management skills that can be applied within sporting and entertainment events and venues. This course will help students develop key skills related to marketing and design and their direct application and response within our community. This course will include design skills learned in Graphic Design I and requires the use of the industry standard Adobe Design Suite. Students will produce both physical and digital projects. All students will be required to maintain a digital portfolio where they can store and showcase their work. 

Please note that this is an art course that will require time and commitment from everyone in the classroom and at home. Creating sketches and designing is the core of this course, that being said - words and shapes thrown onto a computer screen/sketchbook is not a thought out design and you will not receive credit for those assignments.

Sketchbooks are encouraged for this course. In your sketchbook you will keep class notes, brainstorm ideas, collect examples and lay out projects. Sketches should be well thought out drawings that take place before you turn to the computer. Please try to date each page as best you can. Doodling in your sketchbook is acceptable and encouraged! You can use a physical sketchbook, or make your notes digitally. 

WEB DESIGN (521)

Grade 8

(Quarter)

Web Design I (8) is an introductory design course that will introduce students to the design side of website creation. Students will evaluate, plan and create their own websites using industry standard technology and programs within the Adobe Creative Suite. Each project will introduce students to a specific skill set that will be expanded on in each further project. Students will begin with simple text and images, and then advance on to using tables and image creation. Student projects will be saved and shared in a digital portfolio.

WEB DESIGN I  (519) 

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits

This course is offered to expand and enrich the student’s education using state-of-the-art technologies. Learning will be collaborative, hands-on and project based. Problem solving, organizational skills, creativity, and a positive attitude toward technology are key components to the students’ success in this course.  Projects will involve creating, publishing, and evaluating web sites that adhere to web standards. Key elements of web authoring—site design, tables, creating and maintaining hyperlinks, graphics manipulation (including editing of images), interactive features, and site management—will be the core topics in this course.  

Each student must: 

• complete an evaluation of a selected website

• design, implement, publish, maintain and present an original website

• maintain a portfolio of projects and self-evaluations

Robotics Pathway

ROBOTICS  (522)

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester)  .5 credits

This hands-on course is designed to introduce students to the world of mechanical engineering and programming through an exploration of robotics. Students will engage in activities through hands-on projects. Successful completion of this course includes inquiry on past and present robots, researching the engineering design process, understanding fundamental engineering theories, studying the IPO model, examining basic robotic concepts, and constructing functional prototypes.

PROTOTYPING  (508)

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester)  .75 credits

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Robotics and Intro to Computer Programming

This hands-on course is designed to increase knowledge and skills in mechanical engineering and programming through robotics. Students will engage in activities through hands-on projects. Successful completion of this course includes analyzing present and emerging robots, understanding the engineering design process, utilizing the IPO model, applying engineering theories and basic circuitry concepts, formulating relevant programming, and constructing original prototypes to meet specific criteria.

HONORS PROTOTYPING (555)

Grades 10-12:  Level Honors

(Semester)  .75 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Robotics and Intro to Computer Programming

Honors Prototyping is for a highly motivated student who demonstrates skills necessary to innovate, develop, write functional code, and troubleshoot circuits and prototypes.  This option is for students who exhibit a high interest in engineering. Students must be able to work independently and maintain sustained focus.  Responsibility for individual learning must be a priority for students to succeed in honors level robotics courses. Students at the honors level utilize the similar concepts and projects as level two, but explore concepts in greater depth. Research topics are assigned for homework.

COMPETITION ROBOTICS (490)

Grades 10-12: Level 2

(Semester) .75 credit 

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Prototyping and Honors Computer Science. Teacher Recommendation.

This hands-on course surveys the design, processing, and movements of humanoid robots.  Course goals are to advance students in analysis, engineering, and programming through the study and development of human-like robots. Students will engage in activities through research, analysis, and hands-on projects. Successful completion of this course includes evaluating present and futuristic human-like robots, integrating the Engineering Design Process, researching reverse engineering techniques, critiquing humanoid components and functionality, devising relevant programming, and developing original prototypes that meet real-life and conceptual needs.

HONORS COMPETITION ROBOTICS (491)

Grades 10-12: Level Honors

(Semester) .75 credits

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Prototyping and Honors Computer Science. Teacher Recommendation.

The honors-level option is for highly motivated students who demonstrate skills necessary to innovate, develop, write functional code, and troubleshoot prototypes.  This option is for students who exhibit a high interest in practical engineering. Students must be able to work independently and maintain sustained focus.  Students at the honors level utilize the similar concepts and projects as level two, but explore concepts in greater depth. Research topics are assigned for homework.

DIGITAL ART OF THE INFLUENCER (830)

Grades 10-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .50 credits

Students will explore the intersection of graphic design, digital art, and social media influence.  This hands-on course is designed for students interested in creating impactful visual content and understanding the strategies behind effective online engagement.

Students will develop skills in digital design using industry-standard software to create eye-catching graphics, short videos, and branded content tailored for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.  They will also learn principles of design, branding, and storytelling to craft a unique digital persona.

Beyond content creation, students will analyze social media metrics, audience behavior, and community engagement to understand what drives successful campaigns.  Topics include responsible digital citizenship, ethical influencer practices, and how to use platforms to support meaningful causes or build community connections.  

Course Objectives:

• Learn the fundamentals of graphic design and digital content creation.

• Explore tools and techniques for creating professional-quality social media content.

• Develop a personal brand and cohesive digital aesthetic.

• Analyze social media engagement data to refine strategies for interaction.

• Understand the social and ethical responsibilities of being an influencer.

• Collaborate on group projects that connect content creation to community impact.

Projects and Activities:

• Design a personal brand, including logos, color palettes, and typography.

• Create a series of themed posts or a short video campaign.

• Conduct a social media experiment to analyze interaction patterns.

• Develop a community-driven project that uses social media to promote awareness or engagement.

• Present a digital portfolio showcasing completed work.

This course provides an exciting opportunity for students to blend creativity, technology, and strategy, preparing them for careers in marketing, design, and digital media-or simply to make a meaningful impact in the online world.