The tech industry is one of the few bright spots in a dim economy. So why aren't we teaching kids the skills they need to participate in it?
Today's high school graduates have no memory of a world without the web. They are digital natives. And so, intuitively, this generation should have computer skills in abundance. Yet companies in the technology industry say they are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit computer science graduates and programmers with the right skills. The problem is a lack of coursework in advanced technology applications in our schools.
This course is designed to enhance the students' abilities to use new technology beyond the basic computer literacy application levels. Graphic design techniques and how they apply to web page design will be taught and demonstrated by the students. will learn web design techniques and how they apply to web page construction. Students will also be introduced to web site services, production, ethics, current issues, and online distribution. Advanced web design tools used in Web development will be explored. One such tool is Flash; a popular method for adding animation and interactivity to web pages. Flash is commonly used to create animation, advertisements, web page components, integrate video into web pages, and develop rich internet applications. Students will learn "real world" skills in technology application careers as they apply their acquired skills into our school's existing web site.
Being able to use the Internet and operate computers is one thing, but it may be just as valuable to teach students how to code. Giving students an introduction to programming helps peel back the layers of what happens inside computers and how computers communicate with one another online. Programming knowledge, even at a very basic level, makes technology seem less magical and more manageable. Programming also teaches other important skills, including math and logic.
Game On!
Galloway's Advanced Technology Applications curriculum is designed to "hook" students into the complex world of programming language using fun, interactive gaming applications. Students will be so engaged in the design process that they don't realize they are learning computer programming language.
Advanced technology applications will include:
- Web Design Basics
- Programming Languages
- Projects
By the end of Advanced Technology Applications, students will have completed the design of an interactive web page. Students will also have completed a series of modules designed to give students a wide range of experiences with coding and constructing games using acquired coding language and web applications.
