Software Engineering & Computer Vision

Before diving into this module, students should possess an entry-level knowledge of Java. Specifically, they should a grasp on:

• Classes and Objects: Students should be familiar with defining and using classes, as well as creating and manipulating objects.
• Writing and Calling Methods: Students should be able to define methods within a class, understand method parameters and return types, and call methods from objects or other methods.
• 1D Arrays and ArrayLists: They should be proficient in declaring, initializing, and manipulating one-dimensional arrays and ArrayLists, including iterating through them.
• Selection and Iteration: A solid foundation in conditional statements and loops is crucial.

Ideally, students who have completed AP Computer Science A or a course of similar depth and rigor would be well-prepared for this module.

This module is unique because it involves the use of third-party software rather than Code.org labs and tools. Read more about installing the software here.

Catering to accessibility needs is crucial for an inclusive learning environment. Read more about accessibility features in the software used in this module here.

Using VS Code on a Chromebook has become more straightforward, especially with the capability to run Linux apps on newer Chromebook models. Read more about setting up VS Code on Chromebooks here.

There is not currently specific professional development for this course. If you are looking to understand how to approach Artificial Intelligence in your classroom you can explore AI 101 for Teachers.

The Software Engineering & Computer Vision module is thoughtfully structured to provide comprehensive learning in a concise timeframe. The entire module is designed to span 2 weeks of instruction. Most lessons are tailored for 45 minutes, while lessons where students delve into hands-on Java project development are designed for 90 minutes. This extended time ensures students have ample opportunity to understand, implement, and troubleshoot as they work.

There is also intentional flexibility built into the module's structure. Depending on the classroom dynamics, student engagement, and the depth to which you'd like to explore each topic, you can adjust the duration. For example, the Intro to Copilot lesson, designed as a 45 minute lesson, can be expanded to 90 minutes if you wish to dive deeper into how large language models and tools like GitHub Copilot and ChatGPT work.

With an approved teacher account, you can find answer keys in a blue "Teacher" Only panel that shows in the online lessons and activities.If you need an approved teacher account, you can apply for access to protected teacher-only materials (answer keys, etc) through this form. Please keep in mind that it may take 3-5 business days to verify your account.

Yes, the Software Engineering & Computer Vision curriculum is mapped to the CSTA K-12 Standards and the AI for K-12 Guidelines.

Our curriculum and platform are available at no cost for anyone, anywhere, to teach!

Additionally, the software and tools used in this module are free of charge. GitHub Copilot is free for verified teachers and students.

Facing issues during software installation can be common, but there are systematic steps you can follow to troubleshoot and resolve them. Check out some troubleshooting tips here.

Our Software Engineering & Computer Vision curriculum was designed with our Curriculum Values in mind. The following goals guided the creation of the this curriculum:

• Goal 1: Use AI tools to generate, debug, and edit code.
• Goal 2: Transition from Java Lab to real-world tools.
• Goal 3: Deepen understanding of how AI models are trained and integrated into programs.

For more information about the values that guided our work, please see our curriculum values.