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Home >          General>          Explore Computer Science Concepts

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View the five concepts (strands) of the computer science standards.

Computer Science is organized by concept (Computing Systems, Networks and the Internet, Data & Analysis, Algorithms & Programming, and Impacts of Computing).

Computing Systems

People interact with a wide variety of computing devices that collect, store, analyze, and act upon information in ways that can affect human capabilities both positively and negatively. The physical components (hardware) and instructions (software) that make up a computing system communicate and process information in digital form. An understanding of hardware and software is useful when troubleshooting a computing system that does not work as intended.

Subconcepts:
Devices
Hardware & Software
Troubleshooting

Networks and the Internet

Computing devices typically do not operate in isolation. Networks connect computing devices to share information and resources and are an increasingly integral part of computing. Networks and communication systems provide greater connectivity in the computing world by providing fast, secure communication and facilitating innovation.

Subconcepts:
Network Communication & Organization
Cybersecurity

Data and Analysis

Computing systems exist to process data. The amount of digital data generated in the world is rapidly expanding, so the need to process data effectively is increasingly important. Data is collected and stored so that it can be analyzed to better understand the world and make more accurate predictions.

Subconcepts:
Storage
Collection, Visualization & Transformation
Inference & Models

Algorithms and Programming

An algorithm is a sequence of steps designed to accomplish a specific task. Algorithms are translated into programs, or code, to provide instructions for computing devices. Algorithms and programming control all computing systems, empowering people to communicate with the world in new ways and solve compelling problems. The development process to create meaningful and efficient programs involves choosing which information to use and how to process and store it, breaking apart large problems into smaller ones, recombining existing solutions, and analyzing different solutions.

Subconcepts:
Algorithms
Variables
Control
Modularity
Program Development

Impacts of Computing

Computing affects many aspects of the world in both positive and negative ways at local, national, and global levels. Individuals and communities influence computing through their behaviors and cultural and social interactions, and in turn, computing influences new cultural practices. An informed and responsible person should understand the social implications of the digital world, including equity and access to computing.

Subconcepts:
Culture & Diversity
Social Interactions
Safety, Law, & Ethics

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