Impact of Computing Unit Plan
Impact of Computing Unit Plan for AP CSP
Course Context
This unit is part of the comprehensive AP Computer Science Principles Curriculum, exploring the fifth Big Idea of computing's societal impact.
Key Navigation Resources
Unit Overview
This unit focuses on the fifth Big Idea in AP CSP: Impact of Computing. Students will explore how computing innovations influence and are influenced by society, economy, and culture. The unit covers beneficial and harmful effects of computing, digital divide issues, legal and ethical concerns, and intellectual property.
Connections to Other Units
Creative Development Unit
- Examine the collaborative practices behind computing innovations
- Explore ethical considerations of program design
- Analyze intellectual property in creative computing
Data Unit
- Investigate privacy and bias in data collection
- Analyze ethical implications of data usage
- Understand societal impacts of data technologies
Algorithms and Programming Unit
- Explore how algorithms impact different societal domains
- Analyze ethical considerations in programming
- Understand the broader implications of computational solutions
Computer Systems and Networks Unit
- Examine cybersecurity and privacy concerns
- Analyze network technologies' societal impacts
- Explore digital infrastructure's role in society
Lesson Progression
Explore computing's societal impact through structured lessons:
- Day 1: Introduction to Computing Innovations
- Day 2: Effects on Communication
- Day 3: Effects on Collaboration
- Continuing through Day 15: Project Presentations and Unit Review
Exam Preparation
Preparation for the AP Computer Science Principles Exam:
- Develop skills for the Explore Performance Task
- Analyze computing innovations' broader impacts
- Understand technological ethics and societal considerations
Unit Objectives
By the end of this unit, students will be able to:
- Explain how computing innovations affect communication and interaction
- Analyze beneficial and harmful effects of computing technologies
- Explore the digital divide and its implications
- Understand legal and ethical concerns in computing
- Examine intellectual property rights
- Evaluate privacy and data collection issues
- Analyze how computing innovations solve and create problems
Learning Outcomes
By unit completion, students will:
- Develop critical thinking about technology's role
- Understand computing's societal implications
- Analyze technological innovations ethically
- Recognize technology's transformative potential
- Prepare for responsible technological citizenship
Philosophy
Empowering students to:
- Think critically about technological innovations
- Understand computing's broader context
- Analyze technological challenges
- Contribute to positive technological change
Embark on a journey of understanding technology's profound societal impact!