Course Description:
In today’s digital world, computational thinking and AI literacy are becoming essential skills for students. This course introduces the fundamentals of computer science, Python programming, and artificial intelligence through engaging lessons, hands-on activities, and real-world examples. Students will begin by learning how computers work, including binary numbers (0s and 1s), data storage, and the basic concepts behind digital technology. They will then learn Python programming, covering core topics such as variables, data types, conditionals, loops, and functions. Through interactive coding projects, students will develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills while creating their own programs.
In the second half of the course, students will explore the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence. They will learn how AI works, how tools such as ChatGPT are used, and how AI can support learning, creativity, and programming. The course will also introduce important topics related to responsible AI use, including accuracy, privacy, academic integrity, and critical evaluation of AI-generated content.
By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in computer science and Python programming, a basic understanding of AI technologies, and greater confidence in using technology to learn, create, and solve problems.
Who Should Enroll: Students with little or no prior programming experience. The course incorporates coding activities, interactive challenges, and learning tools such as Kahoot to create a fun, engaging, and supportive learning environment.
课程简介: 在数字化时代，计算思维和人工智能素养已成为重要的基础能力。本课程旨在帮助学生了解计算机科学基础、学习 Python 编程，并认识人工智能（AI）的原理与应用。
课程将从计算机如何工作开始，介绍二进制（0 和 1）、数据存储以及数字世界的基本概念。随后，学生将学习 Python 编程，包括变量、数据类型、条件判断、循环和函数等核心知识，并通过有趣的编程项目培养逻辑思维和解决问题的能力。
在课程后半部分，学生将探索人工智能的发展与应用，了解 ChatGPT 等 AI 工具的工作原理及其在学习和编程中的实际用途。同时，课程还将讨论 AI 的伦理与责任使用，包括信息准确性、隐私保护、学术诚信以及如何批判性地评估 AI 生成内容。课程结束时，学生将掌握计算机科学和 Python 编程的基础知识，对人工智能有初步认识，并建立运用技术进行创造和解决问题的信心。
适合对象： 无编程基础或初学者学生。课程将结合编程实践、互动活动和 Kahoot 等趣味学习工具，让学生在轻松愉快的环境中学习科技知识。
Student Teacher:
Michelle Liu: a senior at Algonquin Regional High School. She began teaching the Python & AI course at CCLS in 2025 with the intention of helping young students understand the increasingly modern technology we use today. Outside of teaching, she enjoys competitive dance, scientific research, and hosting senior center brain health awareness workshops.
Weiyi Zhou: a junior at Hopkinton High School. This will be his first time teaching a course at CCLS. Outside of school he likes to play basketball and hang out with friends