What is Computer Science?

Computer science is often confused with the everyday use of computers and computer applications, such as learning how to access the Internet and use digital presentation software.  Computer science builds on computer literacy, educational technology, digital citizenship, and information technology. It is defined as “the study of computers and algorithmic processes, including their principles, their hardware and software designs, their implementation, and their impact on society.” 

-Tucker et. al, 2003, p. 6

Is STEM the Same as Computer Science?

STEM traditionally stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. In Davis School District (DSD), STEM has been refined to focus on students experiencing wonder, sense making, and problem solving across all content areas in a collaborative, creative, and real-world environment. Davis School District strives for students to experience something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar, or inexplicable every day. STEM is a way of teaching and student learning, not a content area. 

In contrast computer science is a content, area and the STEM process should be used to teach and learn. 6.3.3 of Davis District's Educators Agreement states that all students must receive a minimum of 30 minutes weekly computer science instruction, in a prep class, that aligns to the DESK standards. Since computer science is a content/curricular area, all 4-6 grade students will be administered a pre and post assessment yearly to show growth and progress and all students grades K-6 receive a quarterly grade/score in this curricular area.