Activity: Reimagining CS Pathways

Introduction

Last week I asked you to complete module 2 from AEA Online training which introduced the concept of the CS Framework which was the precursor to the CS Standards. In this activity we want to have you explore and analyze that Framework with your peers and identify ways in which it aligns with the principles and recommendations of the Reimagining CS Pathways project.

CS Pathways

In this activity you will use Reimagining CS Pathways. In particular:

• Exploring Foundational Content
• Pathways beyond the Foundation

In a small group, discuss the key elements of the CS Pathways materials.

• The CS Pathways is centered on five "Topic Areas"
  • Consider these five topics (click the "Read More" link for each)
    • Notice that each has drawn out learning outcomes for different levels of Bloom's Taxonomy.
  • Consider how you could use these outcomes to plan instruction at your gradeband.
• The CS Pathways discusses four "Pillars" (practices, methods, and approaches) that are designed to be "intentionally embedded" within each of the Topic Areas.
  • Reflect on these four pillars (click on the plus next to each label on the left hand side of the page)
  • For each, discuss what these pillars mean within your gradeband.
• The CS Pathways introduces seven "Dispositions"
  • Review these seven dispositions (use the tool on the right side of the page to view the explanation for each)
  • Pick two of these dispositions and consider how they fit into existing curriculum (both CS and non-CS subjects) for your gradeband.

Connections

As a large group, discuss the places and ways in which the original CS Framework document is woven into the Reimagining CS Principles document.

You might consider creating an integration map to visualize these connections