Computer Science is understanding how and why technologies work, exploring whether and how technology could solve real-life problems, investigating procedures, creating solutions, and learning about computing systems, programming, data, networks, and the effects on society and the individual. Computer Science is learning how to create new technologies, rather than simply using them.
Vision
All Iowa students will engage in the concepts and practices of computer science through an intentional progression of experiences in order to prepare them to become enterprising citizens that positively impact society.
Iowa Department of Education Computer Science webpage
Requirements
- By July 2022, districts develop and implement a K-12 Computer Science Plan for instruction;
- Grades one through six: Computer science instruction incorporating the standards must be offered in at least one grade level commencing with the school year beginning July 1, 2023 (Iowa Code § 256.11(3));
- Grades seven and eight: Computer science instruction incorporating the standards must be offered in at least one of these two grade levels commencing with the school year beginning July 1, 2023 (Iowa Code § 256.11(4)); and
- Grades nine through 12: One-half unit of computer science incorporating the standards commencing with the school year beginning July 1, 2022, must be offered and taught (Iowa Code § 256.11(5)”I”). The Department highly recommends that instruction is offered in courses that fit into Iowa’s SCED codes.
- For more information, see the Computer Science Guidance HF2629.pdf
Standards
Iowa’s computer science standards are the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards, which were developed by the Computer Science Teachers Association. The standards were approved and adopted by the Iowa State Board of Education in June 2018, based on an Iowa team’s recommendation. There is also a pdf version of the Iowa Computer Science Progressions.
Updates
- GPAEA Computer Science Support & Dept. of Education Funding Opportunities (January 2022)
- State-wide AEA SCRIPT Site (AEA CS Informational Videos at bottom of the resource tab)
Curriculum & Professional Development
- CSTA PD Opportunities searchable resource of free and paid computer science curriculums
- Examples of High School Computer Science Curriculum Resources and Programs with Descriptions
- AEA Learning Online Course: The Art of Computer Science: Advanced Concepts for High School Students. The cost per student for this course will be: $250/per student. If interested, please fill out this the Art of Computer Science Interest form. Once AEALO has that information, they will follow up with those districts in March with directions on how to formally register students, arrange for payment, and details related to getting registered students into the course beginning August 1, 2022.
- Curriculum and Professional Development Grants are available on the Iowa Department of Education Computer Science page.
- AEA PD Online self-paced modules exploring the Iowa Computer Science Student Standards. Log in and search for “Computer Science”. You can choose the “course option” to register for recertification credit. There is a cost if taking the modules as a course. You can also complete each individual module for free by clicking on the module title (blue no credit option) Here is a list of the individual modules:
- Computer Science #1: Understanding the What and Why of Computer Science
- Computer Science #2: Understanding the K12 Computer Science Framework
- Computer Science #3: Understanding Iowa’s Computer Science Standards
- Computer Science #4: Applying and Connecting the Computer Science Standards
- CSTA Iowa has a license renewal course for educators attending the 2022 CSTA Conference (#202755 GW – CSTA Iowa National Conference Course) in the PD system.
Connect with Other Computer Science Teachers