Technology & Media Arts Department

Our goal is for students to become self-directed learners, problem-solvers, and ethically responsible citizens prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of a global, technological society.

Computer technology should be used as a vehicle for communication, analysis, research, and innovation in the light of Catholic values and morality.

We are committed to the integration and effective use of technology to further our educational mission.

Innovation & Design Center

Technology Electives

Innovation Lab

Innovation Lab
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: None

This course focuses on the design process. Students will learn how to use the center’s tools, such as 3-D Printers, a Laser Engraver and other technological tools as a means of engaging in design thinking and problem-solving processes. Additionally, students will learn 3D design programs and Adobe Illustrator. This project-based course will include both individual and collaborative opportunities to demonstrate mastery.

Advanced Innovation Lab

Advanced Innovation Lab
Grade Level: 10-12
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Innovation Lab or teacher recommendation

In this course, students learn and implement elements of Design Thinking and computer design software through ideation, modeling, and prototyping. Students work with a variety of tools such as laser cutters, 3D printers, textiles, and woodworking to develop and produce projects. Students are encouraged to embrace challenges and struggles by working through trial and error, and to seek solutions through peer review and personal reflection. Additionally, students learn to develop product timelines, budgeting, planning, and keeping detailed notes regarding the product's progress. Students are expected to maintain and update their product's design and implementation in a Google Sites portfolio.

Introduction to Computer Science

Introduction to Computer Science
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: Concurrent Enrollment in Algebra 1 or higher

In this introductory yet rigorous programming semester course, you will learn Python: a powerful and versatile programming language in use at colleges and companies around the world. In addition to becoming fluent in the fundamental building blocks of programming, we will explore many applications of code, including creating our own graphics and interactive games. This class is an elective credit but with prior instructor notice can also be used to fulfill the speech communication requirement. Students without prior programming experience are STRONGLY encouraged to take this course AFTER taking Physics.

Computer Science 1

Computer Science 1
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: None

Students will explore the essential components of computers and networks, gaining an understanding of how hardware, software, firmware, and operating systems work together. They will learn how digital information is stored, processed, and shared, while developing skills in troubleshooting and technical support. The course also covers the global impact of computing and introduces students to basic programming, including writing original programs. This hands-on course requires no prerequisites, though basic computer familiarity is helpful. The skills gained are valuable for home use, future Computer Science courses, and a wide range of technology careers.

Computer Science 2

Computer Science 2
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Computer Science 1 or teacher recommendation

Students will expand on the foundational knowledge gained in Computer Science 1 by exploring more advanced concepts in hardware, networking, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. They will further develop their programming skills through larger, more complex projects.

Robotics 1

Robotics 1
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: None

Students in Robotics 1 work with a provided robotics kit to design, build, and program interactive robots. Through hands-on projects, they explore key concepts in design, engineering, and programming. Using advanced sensors, students create robots capable of interacting with their environment. This course is designed for beginners and requires no prior experience in building or programming.

Robotics 2

Robotics 2
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Robotics 1 or teacher recommendation

In Robotics 2, students further develop their engineering and programming skills. Using a provided robotics kit and text-based programming, they design, build, and program more advanced robots. This hands-on, project-focused course builds upon the foundation established in Robotics 1, introducing significantly more complex engineering and programming challenges.

Computer Game Design 1

Computer Game Design 1
Grade Level: 9th-12th
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: None

This course introduces students to the fundamental software development process. Using a provided framework, students design and develop 2D computer games. Basic programming skills are required to complete these projects. Throughout the course, students will create a variety of games, which may include examples such as platformers, puzzle games, or arcade-style games.

Computer Game Design 2

Computer Game Design 2
Grade Level: 9th-12th
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Computer Game Design 1 or teacher recommendation

Ready to take your game development skills to the next level? In this course, students explore advanced programming techniques to create more complex and engaging games. They will learn how to manage data and structures more effectively, enabling richer and more dynamic gameplay experiences. This course also serves as a great foundation for students planning to explore Java Programming.

Digital Logic

Digital Logic
Grade Level: 9th-12th
Credit: 0.5, Semester
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Geometry or higher

This is an introductory course in digital logic. Students will design and build circuits using digital logic; both on a simulator and hands-on with a breadboard. The student will be able to: design, analyze, and construct a circuit using digital logic. AOI, NAND, and NOR logic systems will be used to control the output of these circuits. Basic latches and flip-flops will be used to create asynchronous counters to “automate” the numerals of a seven-segment display.

AP Computer Science A

AP Computer Science A
Grade Level: 10th-12th
Credit: 1.0, Full Year
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 and Computer Science 1

This course focuses on developing the skills to create and work with the technologies shaping the future, while tackling real-world problems. In this course, you’ll learn to design, write, and implement computer programs using a subset of the Java programming language. You’ll explore concepts such as algorithms, data structures, and problem-solving techniques to build efficient and effective solutions.

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