COMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

General Philosophy

All of the department’s offerings are elective courses. With few exceptions, learners may enroll in any course without the need to take prerequisite classes. In some sense, the material covered in many classes is complementary. For example, digital images are often found on web pages so it may make sense to enroll in classes covering these topics sometime during your studies at McQuaid Jesuit, or not. The point is that the department offers students greater flexibility to learn the things that they want. Within this freedom lies a danger that you will bypass the need to excel at the simple things like word processing, spreadsheets and making presentations. In our opinion, all high school graduates should know how to do these things well.

We share a word of caution about choosing half credit electives. You may choose two computer electives that are “complementary” but might not fit into your schedule because they meet on the same period or day. It is impossible for us to know the exact scheduling of electives without knowing overall course demand, teacher loads and other intangible factors. In this case, select your priorities and alternate choices wisely because these may impact your overall schedule. Students will be expected to purchase books and other materials for all courses.

The department offers versatility in its courses. Students can explore the disciplines of print or web publishing, inquire into the world of robotics and computer aided design, create and manipulate images and animations, learn to program or simply word process. Many fascinating areas in the world of computing are made available by our department for your discovery. It’s an exciting world and you are most welcome to explore it.

Introduction to Computer Technology (MS Office/Visual Basic)

This 1-credit class combines in one course both software application and introductory programming instruction. High school students and graduates alike should possess a good general knowledge of common applications such as word processing, spreadsheets and presentation programs. An ideal applicant for college would have some additional exposure to a programming language. The course provides instruction in the MS Office Professional suite and MS Visual Basic to meet these goals. This practical course features lots of hands-on labs and unit testing.

Many students find this combination refreshing and are encouraged to continue on in programming or application classes upon the completion of this course. As this class covers many topics from the middle school’s Computer Literacy course, it may not be advisable for a recent McQuaid middle school graduates to enroll in this class. It may serve these graduates better to take this as a refresher class during later years. New incoming students without strong competencies in common software applications are encouraged to take this course before other computer electives.

Introduction to Java Programming

A ½-credit comprehensive introduction to graphical applet programming using the Java language, this course introduces students to program design and development. Topics covered include object and data variables, repetition statements, conditional logic, methods, and classes within an “objects first” approach. Students will develop problem-solving skills through in-class projects, which will be supplemented by reading and written assignments. Frequent quizzes will comprise the majority of this course’s grade. It is a useful elective for upper-class students who want to investigate an introductory college-level programming course at a more accommodating secondary pace. This class is a prerequisite to the Advanced Placement Computer Science course. As most applets are embedded within web pages, this course also is complementary to the HTML programming electives offered by the department.

AP Computer Science

A continuation of the basic-level programming class, this 1-credit course prepares students for the AP Computer Science A exam in May 2007. Covered AP exam topics are mandated by the College Board, which administers the Advanced Placement program, and include arrays, strings, classes and objects, and selection and sorting techniques. Many students will find the comprehensive review of the Grid World simulation a fascinating exercise combining real-life behavior modeling with object-oriented programming principles. Taking the AP Computer Science Exam is required of all course participants

Guidelines for Accepting Students to AP Computer Science:

· A final average of at least an 85 in the Introductory to Java Programming course.

· Completion of third year math or at least simultaneous enrollment.

· Recognition that flex time will be used for lab periods at least once a cycle when the period meets immediately after this period (and quite possibly after school if the student is unable to complete the assignment in the last period)

· A demonstration of general academic competence especially in the math and science areas.

Robotics

This ½ credit course will introduce learners to the exciting world of robotics. Students will be able to apply concepts in ratios and proportions, rotational torques, speed and distance, and gearing to design and control the robots. Each person will work with a partner to solve a series of thought provoking lab challenges. Many participants will find the hands-on activities engaging, and a good introduction to some of the applied engineering, science and computer design coursework they may encounter in a post-secondary curriculum. Enrollment in this course may be limited, since the course features extensive problem solving, a student should have a strong desire to learn the material prior to taking it. Learners should have completed a basic algebra course prior to enrollment.

HTML Programming

This ½-credit course covers the basics of web page development, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML). Students will produce web pages from scratch and work on several major projects. Topics including working with text and images, lists, tables, image mapping, frames, form development and style sheets will be covered. In-class projects and unit testing are the critical components of student evaluation. This class is open to any student who has an interest in web development. As animations, applets and digital images are frequently embedded within web pages, courses covering animation, Java programming as well as image editing cover complementary material to that included in this class.

Advanced HTML Programming

This ½-credit course takes off where the HTML Programming course ends. The course will focus on JavaScript utilization in Web Pages, DHTML, XML, and PHP. Students will employ JavaScript techniques to improve their Web pages. Dynamic HTML (DHTML) will be used to enhance Web pages with animations and increased interactivity. Students will learn to use the Extensible Markup Language (XML) to describe the structure and content of documents. Finally, students will gain experience using the popular PHP hypertext preprocessor language to create Web page templates in order to easily portray a common theme across a web site. In-class projects and unit testing are the critical components of student evaluation. This course requires the completion of the HTML Programming course or the passing of an equivalency exam.

Image Editing with Adobe Photoshop CS

The focus of this ½-credit class is learning the fundamentals of Adobe Photoshop. Students create original artwork as well as modify existing images using multiple rendering tools. Students will also learn how to manipulate, retouch, and enhance photographic digital images. This course utilizes a “learning through hands-on lab work” approach, which requires a student to possess good work habits in order to achieve subject mastery. Material covered in this course is complementary to the animation, HTML and desktop publishing courses offered by the department. Students who have completed the previously offered Graphic Applications & Development course may enroll in this course, but will be expected to complete enrichment projects during the first semester.

Two-Dimensional Design and Drafting

The focus of this ½-credit class is learning the fundamentals of AutoCad LT 2006 software. AutoCad is the industry standard program for computer-aided drafting (CAD). Students will master concepts and techniques for computer aided, 2-dimensional design and drafting. Students will also be introduced to 3-dimensional design concepts. This course utilizes a “learning through hands-on lab work” approach, which requires a student to possess good work habits in order to achieve subject mastery. The chosen textbook is project based and has students work through a series of progressive lab exercises. Students should have completed at a minimum, a course in geometry prior to taking this program.

Animations with Macromedia Flash

This ½-credit course teaches students how to use the software application Macromedia Flash. The primary purpose of Flash is to create content for publishing on the Web. Students will use Flash to create animations, navigation buttons, and menus. During this course, students will progress from creating simple GIF animations to developing sophisticated Flash presentations. This course utilizes a “learning through hands-on lab work” approach, which requires a student to possess good work habits in order to achieve subject mastery. As most Flash animations are embedded within web pages, this course’s subject material is complementary to concepts taught in the HTML programming courses. Students who have completed the previously offered Graphic Applications & Development course may enroll in this course, but will be expected to complete enrichment projects during the first semester.

Desktop Publishing

This ½-credit course takes one-step beyond word processing to explore the features of the Adobe InDesign program. Students learn about the powerful features of this typographical tool through ample hands-on exercises. It is an excellent alternative for the student who seeks editorial leadership opportunities in the area of school publications or those contemplating further study in the print design. This course is graded with project completion, testing and assessment of original student work constituting the majority of this grade. Most of the work required of the typical student is completed within the class so the ability to focus on project completion and meet deadlines is required of all successful learners. As the program is one part of the a suite of design tools from Adobe, enrollment in the Adobe Photoshop CS elective is thought to be complementary with the skills acquired in this course.

Computer Laboratory Assistant

The computer lab assistant program is a 1/2-credit course and matches qualified students with introductory level or Middle School classes for the purposes of providing one-to-one hands-on support. Desired qualities include the ability to communicate effectively, strong knowledge of programming and office applications, and the capability of modeling appropriate behavior to underclassmen. This course requires completion of at least two or more computer electives, permission from the teacher of the course you desire assisting and permission from the department chair.

How to Apply for the Assistant Positions listed below:

• See Mr. Maxwell (for Computer Network Assistant) or Mr. Simkins (for Internet & Web Site Assistant) directly to express your interest in the position.
• You must have completed at least one computer class at McQuaid so that the course’s teacher can vouch for your potential and character.
• Write a letter of interest stating your qualifications. If you will be applying for the position as a junior, you must state in the letter that you realize the assistant position will be a two-year commitment.
• Get one non-computer science department teacher to write a short character reference for you.
• Complete an informal interview with Mr. Maxwell or Mr. Simkins.

Computer Network Assistant

The computer network assistant can earn 1 credit by working under the direction of the Director of Educational Technology to create and improve network services and to respond to service requests.. Duties will primarily include technical maintenance of network hardware and services. Desired qualities include the ability to work as part of a technology team as well as to carry out assigned tasks independently. Familiarity with basic workstation operations including Windows XP and the installation of common software, printers and other devices required.

Internet & Web Site Assistant