COMPUTER STUDIES

Computer studies courses at KCVI aim to teach general computer knowledge and skills applicable to any career path, as well as more advanced and specialized skills that lead to careers and post-secondary studies in high technology.

“It's my belief that computers aren't something you use like you would a Stairmaster. You can't get a workout on it in a half-hour. You need to have it as part of your life.” - Elisabeth Stock

Some of the hottest job markets for the next few years are expected to be E-commerce, computer programming (especially software for social interaction), electronic security, computer and network technology (especially wireless technologies), autonomous robotics, and multi-media arts. (Wallace Immen, globeandmail.com and JobFutures.ca). KCVI offers computer studies courses that provide excellent preparation for all of these career paths.

“Information technology has staged a remarkable recovery from the tech bust in 2000 and there is currently an acute shortage of specialists.” - Patrick Sullivan, president, Workopolis.com.

COMPUTER STUDIES PREREQUISITE FLOW CHART

COMPUTER STUDIES COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

BTT1OK Information and Communication Technology in Business, Grade 9, Open

This course introduces students to information and communication technology in a business environment and builds a foundation of digital literacy skills necessary for success in a technologically driven business world. Students will develop word processing, spreadsheet, database, desktop publishing, presentation software, and website design skills with an emphasis on business application. Throughout the course, there is an emphasis on effective electronic research and communication skills and students will develop transferable skills for use throughout their high school career.

This course builds a foundation for further studies in business or computer studies and helps students develop the business knowledge and skills they will need in their everyday lives.

This course is also offered as an extended/immersion French course.

Prerequisite: None

TIJ1OK Exploring Technologies, Grade 9, Open

Please see the Technology section.

ICS2OK Introduction to Computer Studies, Grade 10, Open

This course introduces students to computer programming. Students will plan and write simple computer programs by applying fundamental programming concepts, and learn to create clear and maintainable internal documentation. They will also learn to manage a computer by studying hardware configurations, software selection, operating system functions, networking, and safe computing practices. Students will also investigate the social impact of computer technologies, and develop an understanding of environmental and ethical issues related to the use of computers.

This course introduces students to the areas of computer science (programming) and computer engineering. Topics include: computer construction and upgrading, networking, web site design, game programming and robotics. This course is designated as open and can be taken by all students who wish to learn more about computers. Students who wish to continue study in this area can take grade 11 and 12 University and College courses in Computer Science (ICS3C, ICS4C, ICS3U, ICS4U) or in Computer Engineering Technology (TEJ3M, TEJ4M).

Prerequisite: None

TGJ2OK Communications Technology, Grade 10, Open

This course introduces students to communications technology from a media perspective. Students will work in the areas of TV/video and movie production, radio and audio production, print and graphic communications, photography, and animation. Student projects may include computer-based activities such as creating videos, editing photos, working with audio, cartooning, developing animations, and designing web pages. Students will also develop an awareness of environmental and societal issues related to communications technology and explore secondary and postsecondary education and training pathways and career opportunities in the various communications technology fields.

Prerequisite: None

ICS3CK Introduction to Computer Programming, Grade 11, College Preparation

This course introduces students to computer programming concepts and practices. Students will write and test computer programs, using various problem-solving strategies. They will learn the fundamentals of program design and apply a software development life-cycle model to a software development project. Students will also learn about computer environments and systems, and explore environmental issues related to computers, safe computing practices, emerging technologies, and postsecondary opportunities in computer-related fields.

The main focus of this course is computer programming using Java and Macromedia Flash with ActionScript. Many of the projects involve students applying computer science skills to the creation of their own video games.

Prerequisite: None

ICS3UK Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University Preparation

This course introduces students to computer science. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields.

Prerequisite: None

TEJ3MK Computer Engineering Technology, Grade 11, University/College Preparation

This course examines computer systems and control of external devices. Students will assemble computers and small networks by installing and configuring appropriate hardware and software. Students will develop knowledge and skills in electronics, robotics, programming, and networks, and will build systems that use computer programs and interfaces to control and/or respond to external devices. Students will develop an awareness of environmental and societal issues related to the use of computers, and will learn about college and university programs leading to careers in computer engineering.

Topics include computer building and upgrading, networking, electronics, programmable logic devices, computer interfacing, programming and robotics.

Prerequisite: None

TGJ3MK Communications Technology, Grade 11, University/College Preparation

This course examines communications technology from a media perspective. Students will develop knowledge and skills as they design and produce media projects in the areas of live, recorded, and graphic communications. These areas may include TV, video, and movie production; radio and audio production; print and graphic communications; photography; digital imaging; broadcast journalism; and interactive new media. Students will also develop an awareness of related environmental and societal issues and explore college and university programs and career opportunities in the various communications technology fields.

Prerequisite: None

ICS4CK Computer Programming, Grade 12, College Preparation

This course further develops students’ computer programming skills. Students will learn object-oriented programming concepts, create object-oriented software solutions, and design graphical user interfaces. Student teams will plan and carry out a software development project using industry-standard programming tools and proper project management techniques. Students will also investigate ethical issues in computing, and expand their understanding of environmental issues, emerging technologies, and computer-related careers.

This course explores advanced computer programming concepts in Java, Macromedia ActionScript, and PHP.

Prerequisite: ICS3CK

ICS4UK Computer Science, Grade 12, University Preparation

This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.

This course explores advanced computer programming concepts in Java, Macromedia ActionScript, and PHP.

Prerequisite: ICS3UK

TEJ4MK Computer Engineering Technology, Grade 12, University/College Preparation

This course extends students’ understanding of computer systems and computer interfacing with external devices. Students will assemble computer systems by installing and configuring appropriate hardware and software, and will learn more about fundamental concepts of electronics, robotics, programming, and networks. Students will examine environmental and societal issues related to the use of computers, and explore postsecondary pathways leading to careers in computer engineering and related fields.

Topics include network server configuration, advanced computer interfacing and advanced robotics.

Prerequisite: TEJ3MK

TGJ4MK Communications Technology, Grade 12, University/College Preparation

This course enables students to further develop media knowledge and skills while designing and producing projects in the areas of live, recorded, and graphic communications. Students may work in the areas of TV, video, and movie production; radio and audio production; print and graphic communications; photography; digital imaging; broadcast journalism; and interactive new media. Students will also expand their awareness of environmental and societal issues related to communications technology and will investigate career opportunities and challenges in a rapidly changing technological environment.

Prerequisite: TGJ3MK