Computer Science

The AP Art and Design program consists of three different courses: AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and AP Drawing, corresponding to college and university foundation courses. In this course, Students create a portfolio of work to demonstrate inquiry through art and design and development of materials, processes, and ideas over the course of a year. Portfolios include works of art and design, process documentation, and written information about the work presented. In May, students submit portfolios for evaluation based on specific criteria, which include skillful synthesis of materials, processes, and ideas and sustained investigation through practice, experimentation, and revision, guided by questions. The AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and AP Drawing courses are designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college course in 2-D art and design, 3-D art and design, and drawing, respectively.

The Computer Science department is designed to inspire students by offering a variety of classes that integrate multiple disciplines: science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) and prepares students for the rigor of these disciplines. The courses utilize teamwork, computational thinking, and the engineering design cycle to develop projects that expand students' creativity, analytic thinking skills, and creative and cultural empathy.

Computer Science Courses

Unless otherwise noted, the Computer Science courses listed are UC-designated (“g”) College-Preparatory Elective courses and may be used to satisfy the one-semester computer science requirement.

Introduction to Computer Science and Technology

In this one-semester introductory course, students will be exposed to a variety of topics in the fields of computer science and technology. Learning objectives for the course will focus on collaboration with others, developing problem-solving skills, and persisting through difficult tasks. Students will begin with an introduction to the digital tools and resources that will form the bedrock of their time at San Domenico. Then students will dive deeper into computer science topics such as algorithmic thinking, logical control structures in programming, physical computing and computer-aided design, binary and digital information, hardware, the internet and networks, artificial intelligence, and more. All of these topics will involve applying the computational and design thinking skills that form the foundation of the course, building a strong toolbox of problem-solving skills for all content areas. (5 credits)

Introduction to Games and Simulations

This course is the introduction to a 3-year Games and Simulations pathway. Students in this pathway learn relevant technical and artistic knowledge and skills to prepare for further education and careers in Game/Simulation Design, Game Programming, or 2-D/3-D Art or Animation. This introductory course is