Technology Education/Robotics

Our Technology Education Department is ever growing and changing with the technology around us. 

Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles offers students a multidisciplinary approach to learning the underlying principles of computing. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. This class will focus on fostering students to be creative and it encourages students to apply creative processes when developing computational artifacts. Students are given the opportunity to use technology to address real-world problems and build relevant solutions. This course prepares students to take the AP Computer Science “Principles” exam. This class is just as much about problem solving, collaboration, writing, creativity and other 21st century skills as it is about programming.

Creating Apps with Animation - Students will learn the basic structure of writing applications and integrating animation that can be used in popular mobile based platforms. Students will gain real project experience by developing new ways to think about using code to impact the world around them. Exciting design challenges will be completed along with an introduction to developing a graphic user interface, user input methods, data management, and more. Real world problems will be addressed from concept design to full pilot testing of the application. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to showcase modern applications that work for popular mobile operating systems incorporating basic animation techniques and solutions to real world development challenges through an in class portfolio.

Introduction to Robotics - In this introductory class, students will explore the field of robotics through a variety of hands-on learning experiences. Students will work collaboratively and individually to design, build, program and test digital controls and robotic systems. Students will use microprocessors, sensors, actuators, motors, servos and other materials while utilizing the Engineering Design process to design and build robotic systems that solve problems in their everyday life.

Robotics 2 – (This course has an Honors option) This unique hybrid course will bring the FIRST Technology Challenge (FTC) to life inside the classroom. Students will design and build robotic devices that will compete at local and state competitions. The use of CAD software, computer programming, and construction materials such as Tetrix, will be used to help students explore various design options to create custom robots to compete in a variety of tasks and obstacles. Students will participate during class time and designated hours outside of class to prepare to compete in highly competitive contests against other high school teams. Club participation after school (September to May) is mandatory. This course can be taken more than once.

Introduction to Game Design - In this course, students will learn how to create their own video games from scratch by following the rules of game theory and the basic principles of video game design. The course introduces students to the game design process, but by the end of the semester students will be able to craft, plan and implement creative video games.

Advanced Game Development and Animation - Advanced Game Development and Animation will expand upon the principles of two-dimensional game design learned in Introduction to Game Design and introduce students to the principle of three-dimensional modeling and animation for game development. Through the use of a game engine, students will implement controls, physics, collision detection, sound, animation, and memory management. Students will use C# programming language, the Unity 3d editor and many of the concepts that are used in successful game design. They will also become familiar with elements of game play and project management concepts, as related to video games. Students will utilize STEM skills as they apply the design process to the creation of their own games.