The Microsoft Computer Science Curriculum Toolkit
This module provides guidance on using the Microsoft Computer Science Curriculum Toolkit to integrate computer science into the class. The module is designed for independent study or collaborative work with colleagues. Use these reflection questions to document progress throughout the module.
Based on extensive research and collaboration among computer science experts, the curriculum toolkit provides a framework across all levels of schooling that’s a complete computer science education. Ideally, an entire school system implements the curriculum according to the framework suggested using the toolkit. However, educators can also use the toolkit to integrate computer science into their class without a full-scale adoption.
Educators not trained in computer science may wonder if they’re capable of the tasks designed in this module. They are. Practice open curiosity and attentiveness. If working with colleagues, share what everyone’s thinking and pay attention to others when they share.
To begin, take a few minutes to reflect on these questions:
- What does computer science encompass?
- What does the phrase "computer science" make you think of?
Most people think of coding or programming and algorithms when they think of computer science. Computer science does involve the skills of programming, but it doesn’t stop there. Computer science is the study of principles and practices that underpin an understanding of computation. The subject covers a vast area beyond programming and algorithms. It includes learning about:
- Computer systems and networks and how they work
- Data and data-related topics
- Impacts of computing, including cultural and social impacts
- Computational thinking
- Problem solving
Computer science is expanding as the field of study develops to include new cutting-edge technologies, including:
- Artificial intelligence
- Cloud computing
- Blockchain
- Quantum computing
In short, the study of computer science is so broad that coding is only one aspect. Educators teach many computer science concepts without programming knowledge.
Reflection
- What topics listed above were you unaware were computer science topics?
- Which topics are you most interested in teaching?