COMPUTER SCIENCE
The [CS] Innovate program has been created to provide learning experiences to communities furthest from access and opportunity by introducing the foundations of computer science through the lens of making + design thinking in order to promote the continued pursuit of computer science learning.
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SVEF is committed to identifying and finding solutions to computer sciences needs in San Mateo and Santa Clara County school districts. SVEF’s Computer Science Institute (CSI) program piloted in 2019, provides learning experiences to communities furthest from opportunity by introducing the foundations of computer science through the lens of making and design thinking in order to promote the continued pursuit of computer science learning in the future.
“CSI is a good combination of head, hand, and heart knowledge. Students are able to apply their knowledge of computer science directly to a physical product while being given opportunities to create projects of their own passion”
- CSI summer program teacher
“I’ve really enjoyed every second I've spent in this class and hope to join again. I loved all the projects you gave and had a wonderful time coding with the tools you gave us. In the future I will try my hardest to become an engineer and maybe even teach other kids.”
- 7th grade student

CURRICULUM
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Project-based computer science curriculum aligned with CS standards. Students get a holistic view of computer systems - across hardware and software. The curriculum encourages creativity and personalization of projects and promotes learning by doing, trial and error and collaboration.
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7th - 8th grade curriculum
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Utilizes Micro:bit for the seamless integration of programming and physical computing
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Centered on the four pillars of computational thinking: algorithm, decomposition, patterns, and abstraction
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Digital resources and individually packed students material kits for distance learning
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Research validated evaluation instruments
9th - 10th grade curriculum​
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Utilizes Raspberry Pi 3 for the seamless integration of programming and physical computing
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Students will have a basic, but a fundamental knowledge of setting up, configuring, and connecting a Raspberry Pi to the physical world (Internet of Things)
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Embedded modules from Cisco Networking Academy courses leading to the possibility of students earning a Cisco Academy Digital Badge.
STRUCTURE

PROGRAM DAYS
IN MIDDLE SCHOOL
7TH, 8TH
PROGRAM DAYS
IN HIGH SCHOOL
9TH, 10TH
Middle School classes run for 19 days, and High School classes run for 24 days. [CS]I classes typically start mid-June and run through mid-July. Each district selects its own program dates, times, and location.