Successful completion of any of the (*) courses will satisfy the technology requirement for graduation.

*COMPUTER IT ESSENTIALS/C-TECH NETWORKING

full year

1 credit

5 periods/week

This course combines Computer Essentials and C-Tech copper based and fiber optic cable construction. This class is open to all students in grades 9-12 with a sincere interesting in obtaining A+ Certification and Networking Technician Certification that is essential to the computer industry. The course combines a streamlined approach to computer repair and the introduction to the process of networking computers with copper/fiber optic cabling and wireless networking. The Computer Essentials portion will focus on computer operations, competent identification and troubleshooting (repair) of computers found in the work place from stand alone to large computer networks through hands-on and theory, using current textbooks.

The C-Tech Cable Networking will concentrate on theory and hands on labs to help prepare students for the workplace as certified cable networking techniques necessary for the computer and electronic industry.

*COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN 1

full year

1 credit

5 periods/week

Prerequisite Requirement: Pre-Algebra, Reading Level 6, or CAD Teacher Recommendation.

Computer Aided Design 1 (CAD-1) - The student will develop basic skills and concepts required of students who wish enter fields involving engineering and design. CAD 1 is an introductory course that introduces basic concepts and skills required for technical drawing, blueprint reading, and computer aided design. Students learn ANSI and ISO standards, engineering drawing fundamentals and the basics required to operate the AutoCAD208 software. These concepts are necessary so that students can produce and interpret technical drawings. Interpretation of sketches and drawing is critical to success of a student in this course.

Students progress from simple paper sketches through working detailed drawings for either mechanical engineering or architectural applications. This course focuses on the concepts and operation of the computer hardware, software, and basic technical drawing. Students are required to be actively involved with reading, math, learning, and applying the concepts necessary to complete assignments and assessments.

**Successful completion of this course qualifies for three college credits under the 2+2+2 Agile Robotics Tech Prep agreement with California University of Pennsylvania. A final average of 80% in this course is required to qualify. This course will require advanced levels of work and dedication. See complete details under Engineering Technology.

*COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN 2

full year

1 credit

5 periods/week

Prerequisite Requirement: Computer Aided Design 1 or Equivalent/CAD Teacher Recommendation.

Computer Aided Design 2 (CADD) - This course is an intermediate level course that a student takes while progressing towards a career in Engineering/Design or CAD. The student will create detailed drawings that include: advanced dimensioning, geometric dimensioning and tolerances (GD&T), 3d surface development modeling and rendering utilizing AutoCAD2008. Autodesk Inventor 12 will be used to introduce students to 3D parametric solid modeling. Autodesk Design Academy software and curriculum guides the students though the basics of parametric solid modeling. Students in this course participate in the Adventures in Technology design challenge.

**Successful completion of this course qualifies for three college credits under the 2+2+2 Agile Robotics Tech Prep agreement with California University of Pennsylvania. A final average of 80% in this course is required to qualify. This course will require advanced levels of work and dedication. See complete details under Engineering Technology.

*COMPUTER FUNDAMENTALS

full year

1 credit

5 periods/week

This course introduces key hardware and operating system functions, and how they work with the software to run efficiently. The students will also learn about file management and networking. The students are introduced to topics such as living and working online. All students completing this course will learn the proper way to purchase, upgrade, and troubleshoot computers. Students completing this course will be eligible to take the IC3 Certification exam.

 

*DIGITAL MULTIMEDIA I

full year

1 credit

5 periods/week

Prerequisite: Any entry level computer course, elective.

This course introduces students to digital photography and the process for editing pictures and digital video. The students learn how to create, modify, and merge photographs and video using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Premier. A digital camera is suggested for projects and assignments for this course.

 

*DIGITAL MULTIMEDIA II

full year

1 credit

5 periods/week

Prerequisite Requirement: Digital Multimedia I, elective.

This course builds upon the principals of Digital Multimedia I by allowing students to complete real-life projects throughout the school and community. The primary focus on this class is to complete the McKeesport Area High School Yearbook. Students are expected to be able to work independently and to take initiative to complete projects and meet deadlines. Homeroom is used in addition to class time. Other club and activity participation is discouraged due to requirement for the Yearbook.

 

INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS

one semester

1/2 credit

5 periods/week

Prerequisite Requirement: None, elective.

This course introduces students to the role of business in the lives of individuals, consumers, workers, and citizens. The student covers business operations, small business fundamentals, marketing, career planning, social responsibility, and ethics. The course is very supportive in helping the student decide if business is the correct path for them.

 

*MICROSOFT OFFICE APPLICATIONS

full year

1 credit

5 periods/week

Prerequisite Requirement: Basic computer knowledge, elective.

This hands-on course provides students with an opportunity to gain the computer application skills that are expected of them both in higher education and in today's business world. As students develop proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access, they are able to complete routine tasks more quickly and accurately, thus improving efficiency and productivity.