Computer Science Standards
Did you know computer science is more than coding? It is important to include all concepts in the computer science instruction. The Iowa Computer Science standards include five concepts:
- computing systems
- networks and the internet
- data and analysis
- algorithms and programming
- impacts of computing
We thought you’d like a summary and links to resources about Iowa’s computer science standards.
Overview of Computer Science in Iowa
Senate File 274 highlights:
- By 7/1/22 districts need a K-12 computer science plan and a 1/2 credit course for high school (9-12).
- By 7/1/23 districts need to offer computer science to one grade level K-6 and 7-8.
- All of the instruction needs to be aligned to the Iowa Computer Science standards.
- Chapter 12 is being updated for the State Board to include computer science.
Iowa’s computer science standards are the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards developed with the Computer Science Teachers Association.
AEA Online Computer Science Modules
Four modules give educators an introduction to the computer science standards. To access the modules, log in at AEA Learning Online, click on Catalog, then Computer Science. All four modules earn 1 LR credit.
This self-paced course helps teachers build foundational knowledge about computer science, the standards, and how to use them in their setting. The course includes these four 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
AEA computer science contacts:
Heartland AEA: Marisa Dahl
Grant Wood AEA: Corey Rogers
Mississippi Bend AEA: Aaron Maurer
Northwest AEA: Tyler Youngers
Keystone AEA: Gertie Monat
Prairie Lakes AEA: Julie Graber
Central Rivers AEA: Michelle Cowell
Green Hills AEA: Judy Griffin
Great Prairie AEA: Lisa Jacobs
Image from Iowa DE website.
Research in the Elementary Classroom Course
A second section is now open for registration.
Research is the basis of everything we know; honing these skills ensures we can find answers to burning questions in every area of our lives. We research to strengthen what we know and can do in our classrooms; we research to find out how to get gum out of our child's hair. Skillful researchers have mastered a complex set of skills, and these skills need to be explicitly taught starting at the elementary level. Students need to be given lots of opportunities to practice these skills throughout their education. In this online course, you will learn instructional strategies and resources for teaching elementary students in grades 3 - 6 how to research effectively. Although this course is focused on upper elementary, much of this content would also be appropriate for middle school. Additionally, we will explore what this might look like in a virtual, face-to-face, or a hybrid environment.
Online Course: March 24 - May 5
Credit options: 1 LR credit or 1 grad creditInstructor: Deb Vail
Course #: 200850
