Computer Networking

Computer Networking is a hands-on introduction to peer-to-peer and client/server networks. The course guides students through all phases of implementing and troubleshooting common TCP/IP Ethernet networks. It covers network components, cables, and connectors, as well as the OSI model, protocols, and topologies. Students implement and troubleshoot a LAN and learn about access issues for WANs. Finally, students explore opportunities for network-related careers.

Computer Systems

Computer Systems walks students through the intricacies of setting up hardware, installing software, connecting to a network, and connecting to the Internet. Students get hands-on practice upgrading operating systems. They get practice assembling and disassembling computer hardware including peripherals, motherboards, FRUs, and connectors. Students also learn troubleshooting techniques. Finally, students get a chance to explore careers for computer systems professionals.

Database Design

Database Design covers all aspects of the database life cycle, from collecting user requirements to delivering a database application. Students get hands-on practice in a true-to-life database project as they move from a statement of requirements to a conceptual model, then to an entity-relationship model. They translate this into a relational database. Finally, they create, test, and document the associated database application. Students also examine career opportunities as database professionals.

Digital Video Production

Digital Video Production provides a hands-on introduction to digital video production. It guides students through all phases of digital video production, from planning, executing, and managing a video shoot to editing footage. Students explore methods of sharing and broadcasting digital videos, including platform versions, CDs/DVDs, and web delivery. They also learn about publicizing a digital video, using techniques such as search engines to direct viewers to the production. Finally, students explore career opportunities in digital video production.

Introduction to Programming

Introduction to Programming uses Python as a basis for learning general programming skills. Students learn programming principles by comparing Python to other programming languages. They use models as a way to quickly solve new problems using knowledge and techniques already learned. Students complete over 60 programs in the course, including both text and graphics/animation programs. In addition to programming, students learn program design, documentation, formal debugging, and testing. Finally, students examine career opportunities in programming.

Principles of IT

This is the first course students take in the Academy of Information Technology. It provides an overview of information technology and introduces students to the basics of hardware and software. Students examine hardware components including peripherals, connectors, and memory. Students explore common operating systems, software applications, and programming languages. Students learn about types of networks and network topology, and they set up an email client/server connection. Students also consider contemporary issues such as security, privacy, and technological inequality. Finally, students explore career opportunities in IT.

Web Design

Web Design is a hands-on introduction to designing, building, and launching websites. Students learn about web development including HTML coding, usability, design, and web-based publishing tools. Students determine business requirements, gather web content, create web pages, conduct usability testing, launch their websites, and plan how to attract traffic. Finally, students take a look at various career opportunities in web design.