Online course designed for high school students
Computer Science: An Introduction to Digital Technology
Do you see yourself one day being part of the fast-changing world of computer science? Do you want to know how computers work—from the inside out? In this course, we will take a deep dive into all aspects of computer science, from hardware and operating systems to various web applications. We’ll explore topics such as how digital technology differs from analog; languages like JavaScript, HTML, and Python; algorithmic thinking; and how computers share information.
If you see a future for yourself in software engineering, programming, web security, or computer engineering, this course is a must.
Know the computer from the inside out
Learn the key components of a computer
What is a bit and how are bits turned into bytes? How do bytes put a limit on the data we can use? Learn computer parts: the central processing unit, forms of memory, the motherboard and connected devices. Review computer history from mainframes to microcomputers.
Discover the different types of logic gates
Learn how to design simple logic circuits and the basics of the transistor. Understand the role of the microchip and the clock and how they impact computer speed. Discover the sequence of instructions contained in a program, such as load or save data, and perform operations on the CPU (central processing unit).
Explore the role of programming languages in software
Practice creating simple computer programs using Python, and be able to describe how the operating system manages the computer’s resources, juggles between processes, and prevents programs from interfering with each other. Know the basics of modern programming languages and delve into algorithmic thinking.
Understand the workings of the internet and its different networks
Begin to diagram the basic configurations of traditional server-client networks as well as centralized and decentralized peer-to-peer networks. Study cyberattacks, such as viruses, worms, and denial of service attacks. Learn basic HTML commands and try your hand at creating a few webpages.
How search engines work, and the role of big data
Gain insights into the world of search engines and how they operate. Review the web’s history and how it is run. Learn how web crawlers track where people go on the internet and how companies use that data. Understand the risks of these techniques.
Prepare for a future in computer science
Topics in this course provide an on-ramp for any high school student who wants to pursue computer science in college or a future as a computer programmer, software developer, or even data analyst.
How You Will Benefit
- Get to know the operating systems, hardware components, and language of software
- Understand how computers share information and how it can be kept secure
- Learn the history of computers from the emergence of mainframes to microcomputing
- Get hands-on experience in how to code a simple webpage
- Discover how the operating system interprets computer languages
- Enjoy flexible learning: online lessons are delivered by dynamic videos so you can tune in whenever your schedule allows
- Earn a Certificate of Completion from Case Western Reserve University
Hear From Case Western Reserve University
3 Learning Advantages Designed for You
Flexible Learning
- 100% online, works with your schedule
- 20-25 hours of total instruction and course work, including engaging multimedia simulations and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support
- A flexible format: you’ll learn through dynamic video lessons. Tune in anytime that works for you
- Engage with fellow students from around the world
Mentoring
You’ll receive guidance from a mentor who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience. You can expect:
- Encouragement and direction on all assignments
- Inspiration, motivation, and confidence to help you succeed
- Brainstorming to help as you prepare for your final project
Final Project
The course culminates in a final project in which you will:
- Create a web crawler in Python
- Code a program that will query the user and retrieve a website’s URL
- Access files on the webpage and follow instructions for webpages to visit next
- Use the knowledge you’ve gained throughout the course to complete the project
- Get feedback from your mentors on your work
- Use video, text, or a presentation to complete your project
Course designed by Case Western Reserve University
Harold Connamacher
Associate Department Chair, Computer and Data Sciences Department
Connamacher is the Robert J. Herbold Professor of Transformative Teaching and an associate professor in the computer and data sciences department. He specializes in applying theoretical computer science techniques to improve algorithm performance and solve problems.
Course Mentors
Steven
Case Western Reserve University graduate of the Computer Engineering program, pursuing an MS in Computer Engineering. Currently serving as a part-time teaching assistant at the CWRU Embedded Systems Design and Laboratory.
Sanhita
Case Western Reserve University undergraduate majoring in Computer Science with a focus on software engineering and cybersecurity.
Benjamin
Case Western Reserve University undergraduate majoring in Computer and Data Science.
Chuck
Case Western Reserve University undergraduate majoring in computer science.
How to Apply
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Our application will ask you to provide the following:
- Basic contact information for you and your parents or guardian.
- Why you wish to take this course. You can tell your story through writing, video, photos — any media you prefer.
Note: Please submit all application materials in English.
Begin the guided process. It should take only a few minutes of your time to answer the questions.
Apply Now
Scholarships
We offer need-based pre-college program scholarships in each cohort to students who need assistance with the program cost. The scholarship application is a part of the overall program application.
If you would like to be considered for a scholarship but you:
- haven't applied to the program, complete your application now. The scholarship application is included.
- applied to the program and didn't fill out a scholarship request, reach out to us at support@precollege.case.edu for assistance.
- are unsure about whether or not you applied for a scholarship, reach out to us at support@precollege.case.edu for assistance.
The University reserves the right to modify the course as may become necessary.