High School Computer Science and Programming Intro Workshop

Learn the Fundamentals of Computer Science & Programming

This workshop is designed for high school and junior high students eager to build a strong foundation in computer science and programming. It's not about mastering a specific programming language, but about developing essential critical thinking, logical reasoning, and technology orientation skills.

What Your Student Will Learn:

• Core Computer Science Concepts: Explore fundamental topics across major areas of computer science, including science and engineering.
• Real-World Modeling & Simulation: Learn to apply computer science principles to real-world modeling, physics simulations, and reverse engineering.
• Data Structures & Algorithms: Master essential data structures like trees, graphs, and algorithms such as shortest path.
• Programming Fundamentals: Understand functions, object-oriented programming, and programming languages in general.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Introduce propositional logic as a building block for AI.
• Networking: Gain insight into internet protocols.
• Math & Computer Science Theory: Explore concepts like lists, sets, and dictionaries.

Workshop Highlights:

• Hands-on Exercises: The majority of class time is dedicated to practical exercises using Snap!, a user-friendly programming tool developed by UC-Berkeley (ideal for kids and young adults).
• UC-Berkeley's Snap!: Students utilize Snap! programming to reinforce learning and share their creations with a global community.
• 15-Week Curriculum: A comprehensive 15-week course (26 lectures) providing over 8+ hours of video instruction complemented by extensive independent practice.
• Engaging Lectures: Each lecture includes slides and explanations, with a focus on practical application.
• Online Resources: Access accompanying web pages with lecture slides and links to exercises.
• Preparation for Future Learning: This workshop provides a solid foundation for learning any programming language or embarking on technology projects.

Course Overview:

This workshop is specifically designed for high school and junior high students who want to get a head start in computer science. It focuses on building a deep understanding of fundamental concepts, empowering students to confidently learn new programming languages and tackle complex technology challenges. Topics covered include real-world modeling, physics simulations, reverse engineering, algorithms, data structures, AI, and networking.

Course Sections:

• Introduction to the Workshop Series
• Lists, Sets
• Snap! Programming Primer
• Concurrent and Event-Based Programming
• List Example: Under the Hood
• Modeling, Design, Implementation: Traffic Light, ATM
• Traffic Light Simulation Implementation
• Functions
• Binary Search Trees
• Values, Types, Dictionaries
• Graphs & Algorithms
• Graph Algorithm Implementation
• Propositional Logic & "Have I Lied?" Game
• State Machines
• Internet Protocols
• Next Steps

No Prior Experience Required: No prior programming knowledge or computer science experience is necessary. Just a computer with internet access!