Computer Engineering

LISA MARCOU
​INSTRUCTOR

Experience: Certified PLTW instructor for Computer Science and Computer Integrated Manufacturing. 21 years in the manufacturing industry, 16 years teaching Comprehensive Technology Education, Computer Literacy, and Advance Machine Tool Technology / Pre-Engineering classes, and 2 years of AP computer science.  
Education / Credentials:  M.Ed., B.S., A.S. Keene State College
Other Interests:  Woodworking, Machining,
​Reading, Skiing, Sci-Fi movies.
Email: lmarcou@sau8.org

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​Students who complete the full 2-year Computer Engineering program will experience two distinct program focus areas.  Students may begin with either year - one is not dependent upon nor a prerequisite for the other:

A-Year (2017 -  2018):  
The focus is on Computer Science Principles, following the PLTW AP-CSP structured curriculum with supplemental resources and enhancements from MobileCSP, CodeHS, CS Unplugged, and Code.org, among others.

Units of study are designed to so students learn theory and concepts while providing opportunity to apply their knowledge in skills through project-based learning - as individuals and as a team.  

All lessons promote today’s connections between the 7 big ideas of computer science:
  • Creativity
  • Abstraction
  • Algorithms
  • Data and Information
  • Programming
  • The Interne
  • Global/Societal Impact

Students have the opportunity, and are well prepared, to take the College Board AP Computer Science Exam.

B-Year (2018 - 2019):

The focus is on Robotics / Automation Engineering, following the PLTW CIM structured curriculum with supplemental resources and enhancement from current industry standards.  

Units of study are designed to demonstrate the interdisciplinary connections between math, science and computerization that society relies on for goods and services.  Students will be designing, manufacturing, and programming automated equipment for devices and systems that meet a need or solve a problem.

All lessons promote today’s connections between computerization and our world.

​  Topics covered are:
  • Industrial Safety
  • Print Reading
  • Programming
  • Design & Test
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Precision Measurement
  • Global/Societal Impact

Related skills in safety, material science, CAD drawing, precision measurement, mechanical, electrical, and sensor systems are also introduced.  
STUDENTS LEARN>> 
Basic Electronics and Soldering, Networking Systems, Operating Systems, PC Hardware, Programming, Robotics, Troubleshooting

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES>> 
Students completing this program are trained for positions such as: Computer Technician, Help Desk, Application Programmer, Web Programmer, PC Support Specialist, CNC Programmer and/or Setup/Operator, Engineering Technician, Measurement Technician - the immediate career possibilities are limitless!
​
COLLEGE ALIGNMENT>>
The following Running Start credits are available through Manchester Community College, allowing students to begin earning college credit and an official college  transcript while still in high school!  Each classes listed is for 3 credits.  Cost is $50 per credit. 

  A-Year: CS105M – Intro to Computer Science 
              CS107M – Intro to Android Apps 
              CS126M – Intro to Python 
              CS124M – Web Programming 1 

  B-Year: ROBO211M – Robotic Design & Programming
              ADMT115M – Engineering Print Reading
              ADMT110M – Manufacturing Processes

RECENT DATA:
70% of students earned at least 12 college credits through the running start program in their first year.
57%  elected to take the 2018 AP Computer Science Exam (during the College Board’s 2nd year of inception)

PARALLEL EXPECTATIONS >>
Suggested prerequisites include:  Algebra 1 (minimum), Geometry, and Algebra 2 (concurrent), proficient at grade level for English reading/writing.  A basic Computer or Coding class, Drafting, and/or 3D design is helpful.