The Computer Science and AI Foundations curriculum introduces students to the core principles and real-world applications of computer science. Designed for high school students with or without prior computer science experience, this course empowers learners with essential skills to provide a comprehensive understanding of our dynamic digital world!
As the new curriculum is finalized for our launch this spring, Code.org is offering training sessions to support educators through their implementation journey.
Find out about upcoming events and professional learning opportunities.
Grade Level
High School students from grades 9-12 of any experience level. No prior computer science knowledge is required.
Duration
Semester long or Half year versions. Each semester contains 6 three-week units for a total of 18 weeks.
A full year option will be added to include an additional semester focused on programming.
Topics Covered
Programming, Data Science, Python Programming Language, Computer Systems, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Networks & The Internet
Compatible Devices
Chromebook, Mac, PC
The Computer Science and AI Foundations curriculum offers teachers flexibility in how they implement the content, allowing for customization to meet the needs of their students, while addressing CSTA standards.
The Computer Science and AI Foundations curriculum consists of six units that provide students with both foundational knowledge and hands-on experience. Each unit focuses on core computer science topics, blending computational thinking with real-world applications. The content of each unit is outlined below, including the associated big ideas and computational thinking practices that are developed.
UNIT 1
Key Topics
This unit introduces students to AI as a tool for problem-solving and critically engaging with AI-generated content. Students will explore how AI models generate responses, where AI succeeds and fails, and how humans can collaborate with AI for effective decision-making. Through hands-on activities, students will analyze bias, hallucinations, and misinformation in AI-generated content while applying debugging techniques to improve AI responses.
UNIT 2
Key Topics:
This unit introduces students to programming, algorithms, and ethical computing, exploring how Python programs are designed, debugged, and influenced by societal considerations. Through hands-on activities, students write, test, and refine programs using sequence, selection, iteration, and modular functions while applying human-centered design for inclusivity. They analyze the ethical implications of computing, including privacy, fairness, and accessibility, and propose risk mitigation strategies. Career-focused discussions connect programming skills to real-world pathways. Grounded in ethics, inclusivity, and computational thinking, this unit fosters persistence, critical thinking, and curiosity, empowering students to use technology for real-world problem-solving.
UNIT 3
Key Topics
In the Computer Systems and Devices unit, students explore how computing systems operate, focusing on the interaction between hardware, software, and operating systems.
UNIT 4
Key Topics
The Networks and the Internet unit introduces students to the foundational concepts of networking, focusing on how data is transmitted across interconnected systems that form the Internet. This unit covers key topics, including Internet protocols (IP, TCP, HTTP, DNS), data communication, and the societal impacts of network infrastructure.
UNIT 5
Key Topics
The Cybersecurity and Global Impacts unit introduces students to the fundamentals of cybersecurity, focusing on both technical concepts and societal impacts. Students explore topics such as data privacy, security risks, encryption techniques, and the role of human error in breaches.
UNIT 6
Key Topics
The Introduction to Data Science unit introduces students to the foundational stages of the data science process, including data collection, organization, and interpretation. Students learn to apply statistical techniques, explore data trends, and engage in meaningful discussions about data ethics and privacy.
Both Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence (CSAIF) and AP Computer Science Principles (CSP) are both foundational courses that engage high school students in computational thinking and programming, CSAIF is offered as a modular curriculum that incorporates modern concepts including cybersecurity, data science, and AI.
This curriculum is designed as an accessible collection of units that provides foundational skill practice, rather than the rigor of a college board AP course.
To discover more details, view our comparison document below.
Whether you are wondering about implementation, alignment, or the student experience,
we've got answers! Click below to access our most frequently asked questions.
Materials and Resources
Comprehensive set of resources including lessons, activities, and projects for educators and students for a unified experience.
Objectives
With overarching principles focused on identity and culture, relevant practice, meaning, and possibilities, students navigate computer science concepts with an authentic approach.
Pillars and Dispositions
Code.org recognizes the 4 pillars shaping CS education: Impacts and Ethics, Inclusive Collaboration, Computational Thinking, and Human-Centered Design. Our curriculum fosters technical skills while fostering critical thinking about technology’s societal impact.
The Computer Science and AI Foundations curriculum offers a comprehensive learning experience through core computer science concepts and AI fundamentals. Access print resources to share curriculum information on the guidance, department, and student level, to provide content details to your district. This resource library includes brochures and informational flyers.
Engaging CS workshops connecting teachers and exploring our curriculum. Offered through Regional Partners, sessions are available in virtual or in-person formats.
A forum for teachers to ask questions and share their best practices, thoughts, ideas, inspiration, and more. Join a thriving community of amazing educators from around the world!
Code Chats are virtual events for district leaders in the Code.org District Program to connect, share, and gain guidance on curriculum implementation and best practices.
Joanna Smith • CS Teacher, Arizona
District Program
Code.org is partnering with districts around the country to expand access to high-quality CS education and ensure that students are equipped to adapt to the realities of a rapidly-evolving world.
Free Curriculum
Find the perfect fit for your learning environment. Explore courses, tutorials, and more for all ages and experience levels. Curriculum meets national and state computer science standards.
Professional Learning
Code.org offers professional learning opportunities in the form of workshops and self-paced online modules to support teachers in every stage of their computer science teaching journey.
LMS Integrations
Connect existing learning management systems (LMS) used by your school to Code.org with one-click roster syncing, single-sign-on (SSO), and integrated curriculum access.
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