L-S Computer Technology Graduation Requirement

• Acquire the ability to transfer computer skills learned in the course to other learning environments
  
• Become comfortable experimenting with new computer software
  
• Emphasize the ability for students to become more independent learners

Teachers in all disciplines will still be encouraged to incorporate technology into their curriculum where appropriate. Hopefully with this two prong approach we can better meet the needs of L-S students in a technology driven society.

Visit the Massachusetts Department of Education Website to read the entire document Massachusetts Technology Standards
Grades 9 through 12 – Technology Standards and Expectations

Throughout high school, as students take courses to prepare themselves for college and the working world, they should acquire increasingly sophisticated technology skills. Depending on the pathways and courses they choose to take, high school students will become more adept with certain technology tools than others. Moreover, as the curriculum demands more complicated learning tasks, students will discover advanced capabilities in tools such as database and spreadsheet applications.

During high school, students also should have the opportunity to use more specialized technology tools that enhance their learning. These might include simulation software, geographic information systems, computer-aided design software, or any of a wide variety of content-specific tools. In addition, students should have the opportunity to learn how to write code in a commonly used programming language.

By the completion of high school, students should have developed an appreciation for the capabilities of technology resources, as well as an understanding of how these tools can be used for lifelong learning. In addition, students should be knowledgeable about the role technology plays in various fields of work, enabling them to better plan for their careers in the 21st century. (From the Mass DOE)

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Each year a list of courses which meet the computer technology requirement will be reviewed. Here is an example of courses that meet the requirement:

LS in the Information Age, Creative Computing, Web Publishing, Dynamic Web Technologies, Game Programming, JAVA Programming, Flash, Digital Imaging, Robotics Programming, Architectural Design, Introduction to Programming, Intermediate Programming, Advanced Programming, Computational Mathematics, Multimedia Music, Topics in Algebra II, Topics in Advanced Math
What if a student already knows everything offered in the above courses? In the field of computer technology the change is rapid. It is highly unlikely any student or teacher is well versed in all of the above courses. Due to the nature of the ever changing field of technology the more exposure to the use of different software the more prepared the student will become.