Program Spotlight: Engineering

An introduction to Computer Science through the programming of robots. Robots are used to investigate basic concepts in both robotics and computing, both wirelessly and virtually. Students will learn how to control the movement of a robot through its world. This includes sensing surroundings and making decisions on how to modify behaviors to attain prescribed goals. The course is intended for those with no prior experience in computer science, but with a desire to hone problem solving and computing skills with a focus on robotics. Prerequisite: None - An elective course open to grades 9-12.

Experience mechanical, chemical, civil, electrical, computer, and aerospace engineering through fun, hands-on projects. You will work in teams to build a pinhole camera for artists with disabilities, design and build earthquake resistant buildings, program an electronic instrument to play a simple song, and create and launch an automated aerial imaging system for targeting disaster relief efforts. Learn how to turn your ideas into reality, use science and math to create solutions that help people, build your problem-solving and teamwork skills, and more! Prerequisite: None - An elective course open to grades 9-12.

Discover how to use engineering design principles and programming to solve fun, hands-on projects at the intersection of engineering and computer science. The course will cover basic circuit design, programming, and electro-mechanical systems. Students will work in teams to program an Instagram-like picture filter, develop a webcam system that provides real-time feedback to physical therapy patients, build and program a variety of assistive devices using a Raspberry Pi and other electronic hardware, develop a robotic wheelchair prototype that drives according to user head movements detected by a chair-mounted camera, and build and launch a water rocket to reach a maximum altitude. Gain valuable Python programming and engineering experience while having fun at the same time! Prerequisite: Successful completion of Engineering I and teacher approval.

This two-semester course emphasizes basic computer science concepts, including the development and analysis of algorithms, the development and use of fundamental data structures, the study of standard algorithms (such as sorting and searching algorithms), and converting to and from various number systems, as well as an understanding of the basic hardware and software components of computer systems and the responsible use of these systems. Throughout the course, proper documentation, testing, and debugging of computer programs will be taught. Students are expected to take the AP Computer Science exam in May. NOTE: AP COMPUTER SCIENCE DOES NOT COUNT AS A SCIENCE CREDIT. Prerequisite: An Elective course. B in Algebra II/Trig or Honors Algebra II/Trig. Information Technology or equivalent. The course is open to qualified Juniors and Seniors. No computing prerequisites are required.