Learning List has reviewed Harvard University’s CS50 AP. This comprehensive product supports instruction in Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science Principles courses. Content is available online and includes printable resources. Instruction introduces students to the basics of computer science and computer programming languages. Students use their learning to solve real-world problems that are relevant to them. Most CS50 AP resources are available at no cost at https://ap.cs50.net.
CS50 AP content is video-based and facilitates student self-study and instruction in flipped learning environments. Direct instruction is presented in videos of (1) Harvard professor David Malan’s, the course’s creator, lectures; (2) section instruction presented by teaching fellows; (3) and “shorts” presented by a variety of students. Videos are available in YouTube and MP4 download formats.
Instruction is rigorous, but contains supports for students. Video content is accompanied by downloadable, text-based resources, including lecture notes, reference sheets, and PowerPoint slides of presentations. Reference sheets are one-page summaries of content that clarify new vocabulary and terms, provide contextual definitions, and illustrations of concepts, where appropriate. A set of CS50 alumni who are currently full-time Microsoft employees are available via Skype to support AP teachers and students, alike.
About CS50 AP*
CS50 is Harvard University’s introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming for students with a diversity of technological background and experience. CS50 for AP Computer Science Principles is an adaptation of CS50 specifically tailored to align with the AP Computer Science Principles curriculum framework. The course’s assignments, materials, and resources are all identical to the version of the course taught at the college-level, albeit adapted to suit a secondary school audience.
*Information in this section is provided by or adapted from CS50.
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