In Computer Applications, taught by Mrs. Stacy Hallman, students learn vital computer skills and receive instruction in some of the most important professional computer software packages. Students learn the basics of Microsoft Office (including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Macromedia Flash, and Final Cut Pro.
The course also features segments on HTML, networking, and presentation skills. Computer Applications introduces students to the software professionals use to create digital images, design websites, format business documents, and edit videos. The class features projects that require the use of each of these programs, and the newly empowered freshman are able to help the school; last year, the freshmen worked on updating and redesigning the faculty webpages on the High Technology High School website.
Two students enjoy their time in class. (return to top)
In addition to obtaining a basic knowledge of computer software applications in Computer Applications, the freshmen are introduced to the engineering field through Mr. Bob Dennis' Introduction to Engineering and Design course. In this class, students are introduced to the principles of design and sketching as they slowly develop their own personal portfolio. After they understand the basic concepts of sketching, the students advance to computer modeling and physical prototyping. Later in the year, the students utilize the skills they've learned in the design and construction of a hydroponics system (a method of growing plants without soil). The course also touches upon the topics of product production and marketing.
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The biosystem project ties together the freshman technology curriculum. Small groups of five or six students work together throughout the year to construct a closed environment that will keep Gambusia affinis (a species of small fish) alive for 30 days. This cross-discipline project integrates the three courses. Students must conduct extensive research on the species of organisms and the quantity of those organisms to place in their closed ecosystem (the Biology aspect). In the engineering class, the students design, model, and construct the biosystem primarily out of Plexiglass while documenting the whole process. The groups use their Computer Applications skills periodically to create PowerPoint presentations that highlight their progress and a website that showcases their designs, sources, research, rationale, and results.
Students construct a model in order to test out their calculations for the dimensions.
One of the closed systems built by students. (return to top)
In addition to the Sci-Tech curriculum, freshmen take two single credit classes that are designed to prepare them for their Sophomore year research project: Data Analysis and Research Practicum. In Data Analysis, the students learn the basics of statistical analysis and gain experience using statistical tests such as the t-test and the chi-squared test. In Research Practicum, the students learn about the scientific method and the ways to design, execute, and properly document a research project.
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Photographs courtesy of Mrs. Stacy Hallman.