Are you looking for a high-quality, affordable computer science class for kids?

Learn more about Middle School Computer Science at STEM Skool!

STEM Skool's Middle School Computer Science class is an 8-week course designed to introduce students to the breadth of the field of computer science through an exploration of engaging and accessible topics.

Exploring Computer Science

Developed by University of Oregon and University of California Los Angeles | Supported by the National Science Foundation

In this course, we will be covering Units 1 & 2 of this curriculum:
Unit 1: Human Computer Interaction.
unit students are introduced to the concepts of computer and computing while investigating the major components of computers and the suitability of these components for particular applications.
Unit 2: Problem Solving
This unit provides students with opportunities to become “computational thinkers” by applying a variety of problem-solving techniques as they create solutions to problems that are situated in a variety of contexts.
Exploring Computer Science

Exploring Computer Science:

Using the Exploring Computer Science (ECS) curriculum, students will learn algorithm development, problem solving and computer programming by drawing parallels to their everyday lives.

Students will also be introduced to topics such as interface design, limits of computers, and societal and ethical issues.

The lessons in ECS align with best practices for inquiry-based learning including:

  • Creating ambitious and meaningful tasks that reflect how knowledge is used in the field;
  • Engaging students in active learning, so that they apply and test what they know;
  • Drawing connections to students’ prior knowledge and experiences;
  • Diagnosing student understanding in order to scaffold the learning process step by step;
  • Assessing student learning continuously and adapting teaching to student needs;
  • Providing clear standards, constant feedback, and opportunities for work; 
  • Encouraging strategic and metacognitive thinking, so that students can learn to evaluate and guide their own teaching.*


*Powerful Learning: What we Know About Teaching for Understanding, Linda Darling-Hammond. 2007.

Course Details:

Middle School Computer Science Course Details:

  • Length: 8 weeks.

  • Effort: 1-2 hours per week.

  • Level: Middle School. 5th-8th grades.

  • Schedule: Mondays. 6 pm - 7 pm.
    Microsoft SouthPark. Charlotte, NC.

  • Tuition: $139 per 8 week session.

Course Syllabus:

See what you'll be learning each week.

Week 1: Computers in Everyday Life. Computer Hardware and Components. 

Week 2: Communication Methods. Finding Information on the Internet. Data Security, Privacy, and Online Safety.

Week 3: Computers and Culturally Situated Design Tools. Mathematical Connections.

Week 4: Introduction to Computer Programming with Python.

Week 5: Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence.

Week 6: Data Collection and Problem Solving.

Week 7: Binary Number System. How to Count in Binary. Data Algorithms.

Week 8: Introduction to Web Design and App Development.

Course Facilitator:

Michael DeHarak

Michael DeHarak

Mathematics and Computer Science Facilitator

Michael holds a degree in Computer Science & Programming and is currently working on a Masters of Business Administration with Purdue University. He has over 10 years of combined experience in computer science ranging from IT security and networking to web and software development.

Sign up for this class:

Tuition for Middle School Computer Science is $139 per 8-week session.

STEM Skool, Inc. Refund Policy:

Tuition is non-refundable. No portion of tuition will be refunded in the event of absence, missed lessons, relocation, decision to withdraw, or dismissal from STEM Skool. Future monthly payments may be cancelled upon written notice of withdrawal from STEM Skool.


FAQ

  • How long is this class?

    This class meets for 1 hour per week for 8 weeks. Our first class is on Monday, September 23rd, and our last class is on Monday, November 11th. Our Winter session will begin on January 6, 2020.

  • Where does this class meet?

    This class meets at the SouthPark Microsoft Store, located at 4400 Sharon Road Charlotte, NC 28211.

  • How many students are in each class?

    This class accepts 6-8 students per session.

  • Is there a sibling discount for this class?

    No, we do not offer a sibling discount for this class.


Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 11571 Charlotte, NC 28209

Phone:
+1 (704) 753-8325