Computer science and engineering design (CSED)

Departmental philosophy

Education in computational thinking and computer science is central to our goal of developing lifelong learners, who can participate meaningfully in a global society increasingly infused with information, algorithms, large data, and intelligent systems. As a life skill, computational thinking introduces students to structured problem-solving methods, where challenges and their solutions are expressed in ways that leverage the power of computers. Supported by an iterative design process—in which ideas are developed, tested and refined—students learn to break complex problems into manageable parts and compose innovative, creative solutions.

With the exception of AP Computer Science A, all courses are one semester long. A semester credit in any CSED course satisfies ASL’s technology graduation requirement.

Core coding competency (CCC) and computational thinking (CT) courses

The CSED program offers two complementary strands of study—core coding competency (CCC) courses and computational thinking (CT) courses—that together develop both the technical and conceptual foundations of computer science and engineering.

Core coding competency (CCC) courses focus on programming fluency and algorithmic problem solving. The CCC represent a local subset of standards—10 essential coding skills identified by the department as the foundational building blocks for advanced coursework. Students in CCC courses learn to design, write and debug programs, mastering concepts such as variables, loops, functions, lists, and modular design. These courses prepare students for AP Computer Science A and other advanced computer science electives.

Computational thinking (CT) courses emphasize how computers, data and design can be used to model, analyze and invent solutions to real-world problems. This strand includes both computer science–based CT courses, which focus on data, systems, and digital ethics, and engineering design courses, which apply computational and design thinking to the creation of physical artifacts. Together, these courses build a mindset of experimentation, creativity, and systems-level problem solving that complements the technical rigor of CCC courses.

Art and Code

One semester. ½ technology credit and ½ art credit

In this course, students learn to create digital art through code while building the core coding competencies (CCC) that support all advanced computer science study. Using the Processing language, students design interactive and generative artwork that responds to motion, randomness and user input.
The course blends creativity and computation, introducing coding as a tool for artistic expression. It is ideal for students interested in both art and technology who want to explore programming in a supportive, hands-on environment.

Creative Computing with Microcontrollers

One semester ½ technology credit

This hands-on course bridges computer science, engineering and the physical sciences through the creative design of interactive systems powered by microcontrollers. Building on the core coding competencies (CCC), students program and prototype circuits that incorporate LEDs, sensors and motors to sense, respond and communicate with the physical world.
While reinforcing key concepts from the physical sciences—such as energy transfer, motion, and systems behavior—students take a creative twist: designing embedded systems that are intended to delight, amuse and express. Their devices become both functional and artistic, merging scientific understanding with inventive play.
Through iterative design, experimentation and reflection, students develop fluency in coding, electronics and creative problem-solving as they bring their own ideas to life.

Introduction to Programming

One semester. ½ technology credit

Introduction to Programming provides a supportive environment in which students learn to design programs that solve meaningful problems, as well as to produce digital images and simple games.
Through hands-on projects and guided practice, students build confidence as programmers while developing strong habits of logic, debugging and creative problem solving. The course concludes with an independent project that demonstrates mastery of the core coding competencies.

Note: Students who take both this course and Computer Science Principles will be eligible to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam (Grades 10–12 only).

Mechatronics

One semester. ½ technology credit

In this course, students explore the integration of mechanical design, electronics, and programming to create responsive, automated systems. Building on the core coding competencies (CCC), students develop foundational skills in engineering, systems thinking, and problem-solving as they design and program physical devices.
Students begin by using computer-aided design (CAD) tools to model and prototype components, developing precision and technical fluency. They then apply these skills to assemble and code a functional electromechanical system that includes motors, sensors and other hardware elements.
The course culminates in an individual design-and-build project, where each student designs, constructs, and programs a working mechatronic system that showcases creativity, technical skill and computational thinking.

Interactive Fiction

One semester. ½ technology credit

This course introduces students to computer programming through the design of interactive, choice-driven narratives. Using platforms such as Twine, students learn how code can bring stories to life—creating digital experiences that respond to user input and evolve based on player decisions. Building on the Core Coding Competencies (CCC), students develop programs that use variables, conditionals, functions, lists, and loops to manage story logic and structure. As they design and test their interactive stories, students learn how to decompose problems, organize code modularly, and debug complex systems.
While rooted in storytelling and creativity, this course provides the same rigorous foundation in programming concepts as other CCC courses. Students who complete Interactive Fiction will be prepared for advanced computer science electives, including AP Computer Science A.

Computer Science Principles

One semester. ½ technology credit
Computer Science Principles introduces students to the foundational ideas that define the field of computer science and its impact on modern society. This course emphasizes the conceptual and societal dimensions of computing, inviting students to think critically about how information, algorithms and networks shape the world around us.
Students examine how computers represent and process data—including numbers, text, images and sound—and explore the design and operation of the internet. Through hands-on data investigations, students learn to analyze, visualize and interpret large datasets to uncover patterns and insights.
In parallel, students engage in research and debate on the intersections of technology, policy, ethics and human behavior, examining issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the influence of social media and artificial intelligence.

Note: Students who take both this course and a foundational core coding competency (CCC) elective will be eligible to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam (Grades 10–12 only)

Design and Engineering

One semester. ½ technology credit and ½ art credit

In this course, students learn design thinking and creation skills. They work to plan, design, and make basic physical objects or structures related to contemporary concepts, trends and technology applications. Most of the work occurs in a collaborative classroom framework and students learn skills for idea generation, planning, team building, and group critique of ideas and products. Research informs projects and students gain methods for innovating new solutions to continuing real-world challenges.

Advanced Design Thinking Apprenticeship

Grade 12, ½ credit or full credit, semester I and/or II. Either semester or full year fulfills the 1/2 tech credit graduation requirement.
Prerequisite: Design and Engineering or Robotics and application with approval from department

This course provides the opportunity for students to utilize the materials, technology and expertise available in the MILL to develop their design/engineering ideas. Students apply their knowledge of design thinking practices and work with the MILL co-teacher to plan and carry out a design project focused on their passions. Ongoing dialogue with other apprentice students and the MILL co-teacher enables students to develop new making/design skills throughout the year.

*This is a research-intensive course.

AP Computer Science A

Full year. 1 technology credit
Prerequisite: One CCC elective, teacher recommendation, and concurrent enrollment in Algebra II or higher

This university-level computer science course, taught using the Java programming language, follows the curriculum outlined by the College Board. Object-oriented programming techniques, including class declaration, inheritance and polymorphism, are emphasized. In addition, students study elementary algorithms, including sorting, binary search, recursion and algorithms on arrays. Students take the AP Computer Science A exam.

*This is a reading-intensive course

Data Science and Machine Learning

One semester. ½ technology credit

Prerequisite: Two CCC electives, or one CCC elective and one CT elective or AP CSA

In this course, students are exposed to a number of topics in the field of data science. They work through several case studies using sample data that they have to preprocess, clean and filter before applying a range of data analysis techniques. These include importing the data to a database to write and execute queries, generating visualizations of the data and applying machine learning techniques to be able to make predictions based on the data. Students also learn how machine learning algorithms can learn biases that may be embedded within a set of data. The course also incorporates projects in which students make use of a data set of their own choosing and apply the techniques they have learned to reach their desired goal.

Advanced Topics in Computer Science: Computational Circuits

One semester. ½ technology credit
Prerequisite: Two CCC electives, or one CCC elective and one CT elective or AP CSA

This course moves beyond software to explore how computers actually work. Students investigate digital electronics, logic circuits and computer architecture, learning how data and instructions are represented as electronic signals.
Building on the core coding competencies (CCC), students connect coding concepts to hardware systems through hands-on labs and simulations. The course concludes with an introduction to the LC-3 instruction set architecture (ISA), revealing how high-level programming languages are translated into the electronic operations that drive modern computers.

Advanced Topics in Computer Science: Software Engineering

One semester. ½ technology credit
Prerequisite: AP Computer Science A

Students with significant computer science experience design and develop an original game or application for the ASL community. Building on the core coding competencies (CCC), students apply principles of software engineering through all stages of the development cycle, including requirements gathering, time management, design, coding, testing and documentation.
A central focus of the course is client collaboration—students work directly with users to identify needs, define specifications, and deliver a functional, well-documented software solution, emphasizing user interface and user experience (UI/UX) design. Students explore a range of development environments and choose the one best suited to their project.
Throughout the course, students also learn to collaborate responsibly with artificial intelligence tools as part of their development process, treating AI as a supportive “team member” while maintaining integrity, transparency and accountability in all creative and technical work.

*This is a research-intensive course

Advanced Topics in Computer Science: Modeling and Simulation

½ technology credit

Prerequisite: AP Computer Science A

Students explore the world of computer modeling and simulation, mastering the architectural foundations that allow complex systems to be represented and understood through code. Building on the core coding competencies (CCC), students design robust, efficient models by selecting appropriate data structures and algorithms to manage computational complexity.
From queuing systems to agent-based models, students develop simulations that are both accurate and scalable. They apply these techniques to analyze real-world data, visualize outcomes and experiment with dynamic systems. The course emphasizes hands-on coding, thoughtful model design, and clear communication of findings through intuitive interfaces and visual representations.