This course (or its equivalent) is a prerequisite to all Computer Science II classes at GOA.
Problem-Solve in a Digital World: Unlock the power of solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behavior in this beginner-friendly course. You’ll learn to think like a computer scientist, developing skills that go beyond programming and apply to across fields. Starting with the basics of computer science, you’ll learn how to read code and pseudocode as well as develop strategies for debugging programs—all without prior programming experience.
Why Take This Course? Gain a foundational understanding of computer science and its real-world applications for both programmers and non-programmers. By the end, you’ll have essential computational thinking skills to approach complex problems with clarity and strategy, setting you up for success in future computer science courses and beyond.
Note: During Summer 2025 and Semesters 1 and 2 of 2025-2026, GOA will offer one section of this course that has been designed and staffed specifically for students in grades 6-8. On the registration page, students and Site Directors should look for the offering that is specific to their age group.
This course will feature weekly synchronous calls.
Students in GOA courses will need reliable access to a computer with webcam/microphone connections, an email address (preferably school-based), a Web-conferencing app (GOA courses use Zoom), and a Word processing app (GOA courses use Google’s G Suite). When necessary, alternative arrangements may be made. Some courses require additional materials which can be found here.
NCAA-approved course
UC-approved course
Are you interested in learning more about computer science? Jakob shares his experience with GOA's Computer Science I: Introduction to Computational Thinking. Computational Thinking centers on solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behavior. It has applications not only in computer science but also a myriad other fields of study. This introductory-level course focuses on thinking computationally, especially understanding how computer scientists define and solve problems.
OTHER COURSES IN THIS PATHWAY
Gain an understanding of computer software, hardware, human-tech interaction, and its societal impact.
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