Exploring Computer Science

What is Exploring Computer Science?

Exploring Computer Science is NOT a coding class. Coding or "programming" is part of what you will learn in this course, but more importantly you will learn how to use technology as tool to solve problems. No computer experience is necessary to enroll but you must be willing to make a full year commitment.

Why Exploring Computer Science?​

According to recent surveys, the number of African American and Latino students who receive undergraduate/advanced degrees in computer science is disproportionately low*. This is both a cause and effect of the underrepresentation of minorities in the technological industry. ECS addresses this inequity by making computer science available and accessible to all learners. By learning how to "think like a computer" our students become producers of technology rather than consumers; and in doing so are being prepared for the 21st Century job market.

"Everybody should learn how to code because it teaches you how to think".

What We Do In Exploring Computer Science?

Unit 1: Human Computer Interactions

In this unit, students are introduced to the concepts of computers and computing while investigating the major components of computers and the suitability of these components for particular applications.


Students also experimented with internet search techniques, explored and evaluated websites and web applications and discussed issues of internet privacy and security.


Students learn that "intelligent" machine behavior is not "magic, but based on algorithms that process information.


Project 1: Computer Buying Project




Project 2: Culturally Situated Design Tools

Unit 2: Problem Solving

In order for students to become computational thinkers they need experience solving a wide range of problems and experiment with a variety of solutions. In this unit, students follow a problem solving process, and emphasis is placed on their strategies rather than the solutions.


Unit 2 Final Project: Traveling Salesman Problem

Unit 3: HTML and CSS

The Web Design Unit builds on the concepts presented in the previous units by having student apply problem solving strategies to web design; this, it also serves as a bridge to the introduction to programming as students move from user to creator. Students learned HTML and CSS through Independent Exploration of CodeAcademy.com and are currently in the process of developing their own website.

Unit 4: Introduction to Programming

Programming is one of the creative processes that can transform ideas into reality. The intention of this unit is to highlight what can be created by using programming as a tool. Scratch provides an environment that lends itself to “tinkering”. The drag and drop nature of the blocks moves the focus away from messy syntax and allows for making modifications quickly. As students work through the unit, they should be encouraged to reflect on their tinkering and the thought processes that go into it. 

Scratch Story Project

Unit 5: Computing and Data Analysis

Unit 6: Robotics