Explore Task
Explore Task Overview
Computing innovations impact our lives in ways that require considerable study and reflection for us to fully understand them. In this performance task, you will explore a computing innovation of your choice. A computing innovation is an innovation that includes a computer or program code as an integral part of its functionality. Your close examination of this computing innovation will deepen your understanding of computer science principles.
There are two components to this task that you will have to complete. The first component is the creation of a Computational Artifact identifying and describing the purpose or function of the Innovation you are choosing to research. The second component is a set of five Written Responses where you will discuss aspects of your Computer Innovation's functions, relationship to economy and society, and data privacy and security concerns.
Key Terms
Computer Innovation
A Computing Innovation is an innovation that includes a computer or program code as an integral part of its functionality.
This is what you are researching.
Examples may include but are not limited to:
- Internet based Mobile Apps
- Cloud Computing
- Internet Gaming
- Driverless Cars
Computational Artifact
A Computational Artifact is something created by a human using a computer and can be, but is not limited to, a program, an image, an audio recording, a video, a presentation, or a Web page file.
The Computational Artifact could solve a problem, show creative expression, or provide a viewer with new insight or knowledge.
This is what you are creating to demonstrate your knowledge of the Innovation.
Explore Task
Directions and How-To Videos
Official APCSP Explore Task Description and Video Walkthrough
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Official APCSP Explore Task Scoring Rubric and Video Walkthrough
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Explore Task Documents
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How to use the Explore Task Planning Guide
Exemplary Student Work Example - Instagram
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Sample of Exemplary Written Responses Instagram
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Sample of Exemplary Computational Artifact Instagram
Research Tools
Below you will find a list of research tools that may help you complete your Explore Performance Task. This list is not exhaustive, and you may use any resource that you believe provides you with quality articles that meet the requirements of the task,
Science in Context
A database containing a wealth of curated science and technology articles.
Access password: empirelink
Computer Database
A database containing business and technical publications in the computer, telecommunications, and electronic industries.
Access password: empirelink
A database containing discussions about the most important topics of our time, from both the positive and negative sides of the argument.