We had the opportunity to review Java Programming, which is an online computer course by CompuScholar, Inc.
I am a computer geek and with that have birthed computer geek children. That is surprising, because I kind of fell into my love of computer coding by accident. I say that, although my mother is a computer programmer by profession. I guess it was bound to happen.
I have taught coding to adults using books that were written to appeal to adults. The books worked well for my adult students, but I knew they would not translate as well to my children. They would understand the language, but the presentation was boring. CompuScholar, Inc. {http://www.compuscholar.com/homeschool} puts the excitement into coding and Internet fun for children and teens.
We had the opportunity to review the Java Programming AP curriculum, which is part of the AP Computer Science A study. It is geared towards students in ninth through twelfth grades. I would say, if your child has experience coding, they may do well taking this course before the ninth grade. The only reason I would suggest a child wait is so he could receive high school elective credit on his transcript. Something to also consider is this statement by CompuScholar:
“it is our most advanced subject, so some degree of technical comfort is recommended” is a statement CompuScholar, Inc. mentions regarding the course.
The courses are written so that students are able to work independently or with assistance from their parents who do not have to be at all familiar with computer programming. This syllabus gives you a good idea of what is covered in the course. The curriculum has a full school year worth of lessons that, once completed, will equip and ready your student to take the “AP Computer Science A” Exam. Java Programming has 27 lesson that have up to four lessons each week along with a quiz to help solidify what your child is learning. The lessons are intended to be completed weekly, but you may set your own pace if time is not an issue. With the online program, you are given one-year access. Monthly options are also available.
CompuScholar, Inc. was created by homeschooling parents, who saw the need for computer programming curriculum for children. Once again, homeschool parents took matters into their own hands and solved a need. The result started as Homeschool Programming, Inc. and later evolved into CompuScholar, Inc., which provides curriculum for teachers and parents to teach computer skills, computer science and Internet safety to children and teens. If you are a parent who wants a gentle approach to learning computer skills, CompuScholar, Inc. may also be an answer for you. The courses are written so that students are able to work independently or with assistance from their parents who do not have to be at all familiar with computer programming.
River was the reviewer of Java Programming. I did tag along, because I never learned Java Programming. The textbook available to me when I started programing were full of too many words and not enough pictures. I like being given examples, getting to try something out and then seeing how it all slowly comes together. The course begins with an introduction to computers. Students do not immediately jump into coding in the first chapter, but it is not far off.
River worked through the lessons Tuesday through Friday. The curriculum allows for independent study. He understood the material, so there was really not much need for me to get involved. So, I encourage parents who have children interested in computers to get their children involved even if they (the parent) has no knowledge. Teacher notes are included and students are walked step-by-step through the curriculum. Each chapter has a video lesson, which is around five minutes long. Colorful graphics are used and they are ones that appeal to young people. That, again, is one of the reasons this program work well for that age group. There are quizzes where students are given two attempts to pass.
I wanted River to take some time working through the program, because computer programming will be part of his high school studies and I want him to have a good base. During the course of one week, he was able to complete two chapters. I had River as much time as he needed on a lesson. He also took some time to practice what he was learning, I think the slower pace was good for him, because it is building a foundation. His favorite part of the curriculum are the activities that are included in the lessons. which give students an opportunity to try out what they are learning. Kids need to be doing something and the curriculum gives attention to that fact. Like I said, I also enjoy seeing how everything comes together. Reading a lot of how to and not having an opportunity to try the how to can sometimes be discouraging. CompuScholar’s curriculum takes a difficult language and makes it easy to understand and “speak” with its Java Programming curriculum. I wish this instruction had existed when I was trying to learn Java.
River is going to continue using Java Programming. He enjoys building though code as well as engineering and wants to continue the study in both areas. The Java Programming course is giving him the skills he needs for knowledge in the computer area. He has enjoyed using the program.
You may purchase Java Programming for $120 per year.
Social Media Links
Homeschool Programming
Facebook – www.facebook.com/HomeschoolProgramming
Twitter – https://twitter.com/HSProgramming @hsprogramming
CompuScholar, Inc
https://www.facebook.com/CompuScholar
https://twitter.com/CompuScholar @compuscholar
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