Computer Science — Secondary, BAE

Department of Computer Science, College of Science and Engineering

119 credits*

Introduction

The study of computer science education involves both learning about computer science and pedagogy. This program is designed to provide exposure to the breadth of topics required to satisfy K6-12 students’ curiosity about how computers and technology, now so central to daily life, actually work, and how students can personally leverage the learned knowledge to create their own futures. Since knowing computer science alone is not enough to be an effective, inspiring, and inclusive teacher, this major also includes coursework and field experience in the theory and methods of pedagogical content knowledge. This major both employs and creates emerging research on best practices in computer science education.

*52 credits from the Secondary Education program including the student teaching internship. This major leads to an endorsement in Computer Science for grades P-12. For questions about the teacher certification process or when to apply, contact program coordinators Caroline Hardin (contact information below). For additional information, see the Secondary Education  section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements.

Why Consider a Computer Science Secondary BAE Major?

Teaching computer science to secondary students is a challenge as well as an opportunity. Learning to teach computer science occurs through a variety of means: the study of a wide variety of computer science, pedagogical preparation within a computing context, formal clinical preparation in education, an extended internship, and continual experiences as a student, learner, and problem solver.

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Students are advised to declare the pre-major as soon as they are enrolled in CSCI 145 by contacting the Undergraduate Advisor for advising and completing the pre-major application. Transfer students should seek advising immediately upon transfer to Western.

This major must be accompanied by the professional preparation program in secondary education and leads to an endorsement in secondary computer science. To be eligible for admission to the Woodring College of Education, prospective students are required to complete two computer science courses (CSCI 141 and CSCI 145) and earn a C- or above in CSCI 145. See the Secondary Education section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements.

Grade Requirements

Recommendation for teaching endorsement normally requires completion of the major with a grade point of 2.50 or better in the required major courses. Students must earn a grade of C (2.0) or better in the secondary education professional program and in all courses required for the endorsement.