8182: Computer Science Essentials (1 credit PAR, Gr. 9-12, weighted)

Designed to be the first computer science course for students who have never programmed before, this course is an optional starting point for the PLTW Computer Science program. Students will work in teams to create apps for mobile devices using MIT App Inventor®. They explore the impact of computing in society and build skills in digital citizenship and cybersecurity. Beyond learning the fundamentals of programming, students build computational-thinking skills by applying computer science to collaboration tools, modeling and simulation, and data analysis. In addition, students transfer the understanding of programming gained in App Inventor to text-based programming in Python® and apply their knowledge to create algorithms for games of chance and strategy.

8172: Computer Science Principles (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Computer Science Essentials

Using Python® as a primary tool and incorporating multiple platforms and languages for computation, this course aims to develop computational thinking, generate excitement about career paths that utilize computing, and introduce professional tools that foster creativity and collaboration. This course will help students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation. 

3200: Information Technology Essentials (4 credits PAR, Gr. 11-12, weighted) College Credit Available

Prerequisite: Computer Science Principles

This course provides a comprehensive overview of computer fundamentals and an introduction to advanced concepts. It is intended for individuals who want to pursue careers in IT and gain practical knowledge of how a computer works. This portion of the course provides an excellent introduction to the IT industry and interactive exposure to personal computers, hardware, and operating systems. Students participate in hands-on activities and lab-based learning to become familiar with various hardware and software components and discover best practices in maintenance and safety. Students who complete IT Essentials will be able to describe the internal components of a computer, assemble a computer system, install an operating system, and troubleshoot using system tools and diagnostic software. They will also be able to connect computers to the Internet and share resources in a networked environment.

3201: Student Tech Team (1 credit PAR, Gr. 11-12)

Course enrollment via interview only.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science, Computer Science and Software Engineering and completion of, or concurrent enrollment in Computer Science Applications and/or Information Technology Essentials

This course, open to students in grades 11 and 12, is a hands on study of technology integration in an educational context. Students are required to assess problem sets throughout the day and define the best approach to addressing or solving the problem. In addition to solving problems for students and teachers, Student Tech Team members will be required to complete and maintain several running projects that address problems or solutions in educational technology integration. To enroll in the Student Tech Team course, students are required to interview with the Instructional Technology Specialist and/or course teacher. Interviews are held in late spring.

8177: Cisco CCNA (4 credits PAR, Gr. 12, weighted) College Credit Available

Prerequisite: Information Technology Essentials 

This course provides a comprehensive, theoretical, and practical approach to learning the technologies and protocols needed to design, implement, and secure enterprise and wide area networks. Students completing CCNA will be able to configure and troubleshoot inter-VLAN routing, VLANs, WLANs as well as wide area networking technologies. In this course, students will develop comprehensive networking concepts and applied skills, from network applications to the protocols and services provided to those applications while progressing from basic networking to more complex enterprise and theoretical networking models in preparation for the Cisco Certified Network Associate industry certification.

8621: Internship in STEM Careers - Cerner Scholars (2 credits PAR, Gr. 12) 

Cerner is a leading company in the Kansas City area that provides health information solutions to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Cerner creates leading-edge health information technology through strategies that empower organizations to know, manage and engage their populations. The Cerner Scholars program at Summit Technology Academy provides students with an opportunity to gain a deeper learning experience related to their interest in computing and technology.