In this lesson, students will learn about the role of an augmented reality (AR) engineer. After examining the history of AR and how it differs from virtual reality, students will consider how this technology could evolve in the future. This STEM Career lesson is built for grades 9-12.  The lesson plan PDF includes links to the appropriate materials and resources, a detailed procedure, activity tips, and a bonus challenge activity.

Ellipsis Education provides K-12 computer science curriculum. This lesson represents Ellipsis Education High School Computer Science courses, made for grades 9-12. Empower your students with courses that expand their skills. Coding lessons use JavaScript, Java, Python, and Godot to develop websites, programs, and games. Learn more about each High School Computer Science course below.

Explore computational thinking and computer science principles using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Develop websites that integrate data and interactive elements. Discuss trends, ethics, and impacts of technology.

Expand core computer science skills with Python. Learn programming concepts like comments, methods, and print functions. Discuss data manipulation, ethical online behavior, and various STEM career opportunities.

Demonstrate computer science skills using Java. Learn object oriented programming with loops, objects, methods, and classes. Explore the importance of digital and physical security in relation to cybersecurity.

Engage with game development processes through line coding. Learn game theory, game psychology, and constructs like nodes and trees. Discuss ethical behavior and STEM careers in the gaming industry.

Computer science is a part of our daily lives. As a result, students are challenged to navigate a complicated technological landscape that requires very specific skills. On a professional level, companies are recruiting for computer science careers in cloud computing, app development, and statistical analysis. On an individual level, computational thinking, problem solving, and relationship building are all deeply influenced by computer science. This understanding of computer science jobs leads to much broader applications. Anyone that uses technology to solve problems can be considered a computer scientist!

Introducing computer science in the K-12 experience opens doors for students to pursue computer science majors in college. Beyond the obvious concentration in computer science, there are many related areas of study like computer information systems, information technology, computer software and applications, and computer systems networking. Even non-STEM majors, like business, biology, and English use technology constantly to communicate ideas.

Likewise, computer science skills taught in K-12 can be applied directly to any career students pursue after high school. Computational thinking, problem solving, and teamwork can be applied in trades (like electrician, plumber, and HVAC) and other positions (like retail, restaurants, and reception).

Ellipsis Education spotlights the many forms of computer science careers in our Confidence Builders Series. In these interviews, hear from professionals, students, and teachers as they share how they built confidence in their computer science skills. Two particularly interesting interviews include Will Muto, a Product Technical Director at Industrial Light and Magic, who worked on Star Wars films, and Alia Enos, Software Developer II at 343 Industries, who works on the Halo video game series.

Looking for more? Here are other downloads that are representative of Ellipsis Education Computer Science Foundations for grades 9-12.

• It’s All in the Details – Python Coding

• API Applications – Unplugged