Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math: LuHi’s STEM Department Gets Students Future-Ready
LuHi’s STEM department offers a diverse range of courses and experiences that empower students to excel in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. From programming languages to problem-solving skills, our curriculum is designed to foster innovation, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.
Programming Languages and Flexibility: In the STEM department, students have the opportunity to learn major programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, and C++. We also provide avenues for programming in Unity, enabling students to explore the world of game development. Our courses are structured to allow students to approach the material at their own pace, ensuring a personalized learning experience while still maintaining essential deadlines. This flexibility encourages students to explore their creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Design Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: We emphasize the importance of deliberate design processes and problem-solving skills in our STEM curriculum. Students are encouraged to generate ideas, create innovative artifacts, and solve authentic problems by breaking them down into manageable components. Through this approach, students learn to develop, test, evaluate, and refine solutions based on specific criteria and trade-offs. We cultivate a tolerance for ambiguity, perseverance, and the ability to tackle open-ended problems, preparing our students for the challenges they may encounter in the real world.
Technology Operations and Application: In the STEM department, we focus on teaching students the fundamental concepts of technology operations. Our students learn to choose, use, and troubleshoot current technologies effectively. Additionally, they gain valuable skills in formulating problem definitions suited for technology-assisted methods, including data analysis, abstract models, and algorithmic thinking. These practical skills enable students to leverage technology to solve complex problems and make informed decisions.
Middle School and High School Opportunities: In our middle school program, eighth-grade students take our comprehensive STEM course. This survey course covers a wide range of topics, including understanding their internet footprint, programming, and robotics. It provides a foundation for students to develop logical thinking, express their ideas, and implement them mechanically. Middle school students have the opportunity to explore the exciting possibilities of STEM education.
In high school, we offer various introductory courses in website design, JavaScript, engineering, and competition robotics. These courses pave the way for advanced courses such as AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A. Our post-AP electives empower students to apply their knowledge to more complex tasks, including data science, mobile app development, game design, and artificial intelligence. These advanced offerings allow students to delve deeper into their areas of interest and apply their skills to real-world challenges.
Departmental Highlight: A highlight of our STEM department is the AP Computer Science Principles course. This course not only teaches students programming fundamentals using Python but also challenges them to apply their knowledge in practical applications of their choice. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of computer science principles and develop essential computational thinking skills that are invaluable in today’s rapidly evolving digital world.
The STEM department at LuHi offers a dynamic and engaging learning environment that equips students with essential skills for future success. Through a comprehensive curriculum, hands-on experiences, and a focus on problem-solving, our students develop the confidence and expertise necessary to thrive in STEM fields.