Information Systems Technology
Course Descriptions

EXPLORATORY AND INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY (3 credits)
All Grade 9 students go through the Exploratory Program.  Please see page 7 for more detail. Students deciding to enter the field of information systems technology are introduced to basic concepts of computer hardware and software. Instruction is provided in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint) and students demonstrate beginner skills in these programs. Students will be exposed to the basics of safety, as well as equipment identification and use. The introduction to computer hardware includes knowledge of computer components and computer accessories. Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

INTERMEDIATE SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS (3 credits)
In Grade 10, students demonstrate intermediate-level skills in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint). Students are then introduced to other Microsoft products and to Adobe and Macromedia products. Basic computer programming, accounting basics, school-to-work and job readiness skills are also introduced. Students are prepared to take Microsoft Office User Specialist (MOUS) Certification Tests.  Students continue to receive instruction in safety requirements and demonstrate sound safety practices. Technology-related math, reading, writing, vocabulary and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

WEB DESIGN AND INTRODUCTION TO NETWORKING (3 credits)
In Grade 11, students demonstrate more advanced skills in web design and desktop publishing. Programming skills are refined and developed and HTML, Java and Java Script programming are introduced. Advanced accounting skills are taught and developed. A working knowledge of computer hardware is reintroduced. Networking skills are introduced and students are able to set up small networks and test them. Troubleshooting skills are taught and refined. School-to-work and job readiness skills are continued. Students continue to receive instruction in safety requirements and demonstrate sound safety practices. Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work Based Learning (WBL).  Technology-related math, reading, writing, vocabulary and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.
 
ADVANCED PROGRAMMING AND TECHNICAL SKILLS (3 credits)
In Grade 12, students continue to advance their programming and technical skills. Programming languages skills include C++, Visual Basic and Advanced Java. A senior project is completed using advanced skills. Students specializing in hardware are prepared for A+ and networking certification examinations. Students are also prepared for and encouraged to seek E-commerce programming and Microsoft certifications. Students continue to receive instruction in safety requirements and demonstrate sound safety practices. Students will demonstrate the ability to complete a job application and interview and to perform entry-level job readiness and trade skills. Each student will take National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) exam, is a performance-based test. Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work Based Learning (WBL).  Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Students successfully completing this course of study will be able to pursue a two year computer technology degree at state colleges and universities or go on to a four year computer engineering degree.  Students can obtain immediate employment in the information systems area.  Jobs include: helpdesk assistant; sales; systems technician; and database maintenance; to name a few.  Students graduating from Information Systems Technology also find great success in the military in fields like communications, information management and information systems technician, to name but a few.

* College Career Pathways – Students successfully completing this program can receive advanced college credit.