AP Computer Science ~ Principles or CSA?
"AP computer science classes have a great deal to offer high school students. Since they vary in several important ways, students should research each course before enrolling"
adapted from usnews.com/education
COURSE CONTENT ~ WHAT IS COMPUTER SCIENCE?
AP Computer Science A uses the Java programming language to introduce key Computer Science topics while emphasizing problem-solving and algorithmic thinking. Students learn to assess, create, implement, and debug solutions. The course includes a laboratory component and is equivalent to an introductory college-level course in computer science for STEM majors (mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, etc.).
AP Computer Science Principles does not rely on any particular programming language but will be chosen by your instructor. The course involves broader ideas behind computing, such as algorithms and data, creativity, the internet, programming, cybersecurity and the social implications of the field. AP Computer Science Principles is equivalent to an introductory college-level course in computing for any major.
CURRICULUM ~ HOW DOES CS APPLY TO ME?
Students should also reflect on their future career goals when deciding which computer science course to take. Differences in course content and skill development means that each class prepares students for specific types of professions.
AP Computer Science A is ideal for individuals who wish to pursue a career in areas like engineering, software development and web design. It's a great choice for students who plan to pursue a college major in computer science (or engineering and mathematics).
AP Computer Science Principles is ideal for those students who are less interested in Java or who would like a big-picture view of computing. It can be an excellent choice for various careers and college majors, including economics, library and information science, or liberal arts.
ASSESSMENT ~ Can I TAKE THE AP EXAM FOR COLLEGE CREDIT?
The exam for AP Computer Science A is three hours long, and it contains two sections: multiple choice and free response, each of which accounts for 50 percent of your grade. Students are allotted 90 minutes to answer 40 multiple-choice questions. The same timing applies to the free-response section, which contains four questions that require knowledge and the use of Java. The assessment format of AP Computer Science A is beneficial for those students who are skilled test-takers, work quickly and are comfortable with Java.
AP Computer Science Principles includes two components: an end-of-course exam and two performance tasks. The exam is worth 60 percent of your overall grade, takes two hours and consists of 74 single-select and multiple-select questions. The other 40 percent of your AP score involves two in-class assessments: Explore – Impact of Computing Innovations, which takes eight hours of classroom time and accounts for 16 percent of the final grade, and Create – Application from Ideas, which takes 12 hours of class time and accounts for 24 percent of the final grade. The AP Computer Science Principles format may be best for students who are more confident in creating a quality product in a long-term classroom environment.
CAN YOU TAKE BOTH CSP & CSA? ~ SO, IN WHAT ORDER?
Yes, you can take both. The courses aren't dependent on one another and may be taken in any order. Most would suggest CSP first as it serves as a broad introduction (especially if you have little to no background in Computer Science.) Both are AP classes and can earn college credit by means of the AP exam. Keeping that in mind, both are college level courses and may include academic work outside of the classroom.
WHAT DO PREVIOUS STUDENTS HAVE TO SAY?
"In a nutshell, AP Computer Science Principles gives students a more panoramic understanding of computing practices. AP Computer Science A can be described as more narrowly focused and technical."