Career & Technical Education and Michael Berry Career Center

Computer Science / Programming

Instructors:
Kim Shawver : shawvek@dearbornschools.org
Phil McMullen : mcmullp@dearbornschools.org

For students interested in careers in computer science, information technology, programming, network technology, computer systems analyst, cybersecurity and other digital careers. This program prepares students to apply the knowledge and skills of general computer programming to the solution of specific operational problems and customization requirements presented by individual software and organizational users.  It includes training in specific types of software, design, development, and implementation; identifying customer needs; programming tools and techniques; creating codes; testing and validation; the maintenance of computer systems and software; and project management. Course Descriptions are found below.

  • AP Computer Science Principles
  • AP Computer Science A
  • Software Specialist I and II (Optional elective)
  • Design Concepts 2D/3D (Recommended Electives)

Computer Science Course Descriptions

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A Academy of Industry, Technology and Innovation

AP Computer Science is an introductory course in computer science. . Because the development of computer programs to solve problems is a skill fundamental to the study of computer science, a large part of the course is built around the development of computer programs or parts of programs that correctly solve a given problem. The course also emphasizes the design issues that make programs understandable, adaptable, and when appropriate, reusable. At the same time, the development of useful computer programs and classes used as a context for introducing other important concepts in computer science, including the development and analysis of algorithms, the development and use of fundamental data structures, and the study of standard algorithms and typical applications. In addition, an understanding of the basic hardware and software components of computer systems and the responsible use of these systems are integral parts of the course. More information about the course can be found at the following website: https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/apcourse/ap-computer-science-a

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES Academy of Industry, Technology and Innovation

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, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. Students can earn college credit if they do well on their projects and the AP exam at the end of the course. More information can be found at https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/apcourse/ap-computer-science-principles.

DESIGN CONCEPTS 2D Academy of Industry, Technology and Innovation

This full-year, one-hour block course focuses on students’ digital drawing & illustration skills including: design composition, color theory, graphic design, web & animation, advertising and communication design, using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Flash. Students may earn their Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) certification in these programs. Students will also be introduced to the basics of web design including planning, layout, style and standards. Approved for Computer Applications Credit. Students will compete in Business Professionals of America (BPA). (Should be taken concurrently with Design Concepts 3D to create a 2-hour block)

DESIGN CONCEPTS 3D Academy of Industry, Technology and Innovation

This full-year, one-hour block course focuses on students’ 3-D drawing, rendering & illustration skills including: design process, 3D aesthetics & sculpture design, 3D modeling and product design using Rhino 3D and Blender modeling software. Students may earn a variety of industry certifications from Precision Exams. Students will also be introduced to the fundamentals of digital publishing including html, css and java-based coding. Approved for Computer Applications. Students will compete in Business Professionals of America (BPA). (Should be taken concurrently with Design Concepts 2D to create a 2-hour block)

ADV DESIGN CONCEPTS Academy of Industry, Technology and Innovation

This full-year, two-hour block course focuses on students’ personal design career goals with In-depth, long term projects exploring historical styles, client-designer relationship, advanced design techniques, serial art, and development of the student’s personal vision and style. Students will compete in Business Professionals of America (BPA). (Prerequisite: Students must complete both Design Concepts 2D and Design Concepts 3D with a grade of “C” or better)

SOFTWARE SPECIALIST Academy of Industry, Technology and Innovation

This full-year, two-hour block course uses a variety of advanced software programs to create custom graphics, make professional web pages, create exciting animations, explore advanced 3D modeling while learning the basics of game design and other in-demand I.T. skills. Students will have the opportunity to earn one or more Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS+) and Microsoft Imagine Academy (MIA) Certificates. Students will compete in Business Professionals of America (BPA). Counts as Computer Applications for graduation.

ADV SOFTWARE SPECIALIST Academy of Industry, Technology and Innovation

This full-year, two-hour block course focuses on in-Depth, student initiated projects using and mastery of specific software packages. Emphasis on the design process, project management and customer service. Students will compete in Business Professionals of America (BPA). (Prerequisite: Students must complete Software Specialist I with a grade of “C” or better)