AP Computer Science Course Reinstated
An extinct course is making a comeback at Huntington High School after School Board members approved reinstating AP Computer Science, effective Sept. 2009.
“AP Computer Science A emphasizes object-oriented programming methodology with an emphasis on problem-solving and algorithm development and is meant to be the equivalent of a first semester [college] course in computer science,” according to new course proposal submitted to trustees and signed by various district officials.
Students who want to enroll in the course must first take Computer Programming. Trustees were told that the prerequisite class “is an introduction course for learning to program with ALICE Animation. ALICE is a software package for creating animation in small virtual worlds using 3D models in Pixar and Disney animation styles. Students also learn programming in the computer language JAVA. Topics covered include: Input, output, looping, methods and the beginnings of object oriented programming.”
The rationale behind the course reinstatement comes from the U.S. Department of Labor, which has listed computer software engineer as one of the fastest growing occupations in the country.
“The AP Computer Science course will require formalized training through the College Board,” Assistant Superintendent Michael O’Brien said. The district will fund this teacher training. The site license fee for JCreator software will run another $2,500.
The ALICE software needed for the Computer Programming course is available as a free download from Carnegie Mellon University. Staff development for this course will take place through the use of downloaded tutorials and workshops funded and offered by National Science Foundation grants throughout the year.
Enrollment for the full year AP course is estimated at 20 students. “This will be a wonderful option for Huntington students with an interest in pursuing computer related college studies,” Superintendent John J. Finello said.
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