Computational Thinking and Computer Science

An introduction for middle school students to computational thinking and problem solving through computer programming, including identifying abstractions and developing simple algorithms to solve abstract problems. The course teaches students the basic principles on how to analyze problems, decompose large problems into smaller problems, and systematically develop logical instructions to solve them. Students are introduced to basic computer hardware and programming concepts including an overview of key computer hardware components such CPU, memory, storage, and peripheral devices; how to write simple programs using the Python or similar programming language; and, implications of computers in the current society and the social, political, economic, and ethical issues confronting individuals and society.