
Program Description
The Computer Studies program focuses on the skills and knowledge required for post-secondary education and careers in computer programming, computer science, and website design.
Courses Offered
Introduction to Computer Studies, Open (ICS2O)
This course introduces students to computer programming. Students will plan and write simple computer programs by applying fundamental programming concepts, and learn to create clear and maintainable internal documentation. They will also learn to manage a computer by studying hardware configurations, software selection, operating system functions, networking, and safe computing practices. Students will also investigate the social impact of computer technologies, and develop an understanding of environmental and ethical issues related to the use of computers.
Introduction to Computer Science, University Level (ICS3U)
This course introduces students to computer science. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields.
Introduction to Computer Programming, College Level (ICS3C)
This course introduces students to computer programming concepts and practices. Students will write and test computer programs, using various problem-solving strategies. They will learn the fundamentals of program design and apply a software development life-cycle model to a software development project. Students will also learn about computer environments and systems, and explore environmental issues related to computers, safe computing practices, emerging technologies, and postsecondary opportunities in computer-related fields.
Web Desgin, Open (IDC3O)
In this course, you will learn how to design and create interactive websites that include text, graphic images, commerce, and multimedia components such as audio, video, Flash, and shopping carts. You will create pages using HTML, Javascript, CSS, and use available code editors such as Adobe Dreamweaver and image editors such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Fireworks.
Computer Science, University Level (ICS4U)
This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.
Computer Programming, College Level (ICS4C)
This course further develops students’ computer programming skills. Students will learn object-oriented programming concepts, create object-oriented software solutions, and design graphical user interfaces. Student teams will plan and carry out a software development project using industry-standard programming tools and proper project management techniques. Students will also investigate ethical issues in computing and expand their understanding of environmental issues, emerging technologies, and computer-related careers.
Co-curricular Activities
Computer Programming Competitions
Students in the CS program have opportunities to participate in several computer programming competitions such as the DWITE Online Computer Programming Contests, Educational Computing Organization of Ontario contests, Ontario Technological Skills Competition, and the Canadian Computing Competition.
Golden Horseshoe Green Tech Robotic Club
Last year, SJAM students joined the GHGT Robotic Club and built a robot in the Green Tech lab which they showcased at Innovation Nation in July 2012. Visit ghgt.ca for more information.
Computer Recycling Event
The CS Department hosts a Computer Recycling event each semester where we invite the school community to bring in old computer equipment. We use this equipment to rebuild computers for students in need. Unused equipment is safely recycled.
Web Design Club
Our web design students maintain the school website and department pages.
CS Events
Each year, Computer Science students at SJAM have the opportunity to participate in some or all of the following activities:
- Computer Science Fair at Brock Unversity
- CS4U Day at Univeristy of Waterloo
- Be a CS Student for a Day event at the University of Toronto
- Video Games Live performance at Hamilton Place
- Computer Science Education Week activities
- CS Career Day @ SJAM – students have the opportunity to meet with computer programmers, computer scientists, webmasters, IT professionals, and IT consultants.
- Computer Conference and Shows
Field Trips
- RIM‘s Waterloo offices
- Playdium (behind the scences) in Mississauga
- Apple Retail Store at Mapleview Mall, Burlington
- Microsoft office in Mississauga
- Golden Horseshoe Green Tech – build your own computer
- McMaster University Tour of Faculty of Engineering (and Software Engineering Game Design Lab)
Updated on Friday, May 25, 2018.