Course Overview
Do you want to create a game? Put your Instagram followers on a map? Predict if you’re going to need an umbrella today? Analyze data and predict stock prices? Then this coding class is for you!
High school students in this STEM course will learn to code in Python: an easy to learn, yet powerful computer programming language. Concepts taught are transferable to learning other programming languages. More specifically, students will be exploring foundational components such as procedural programming, control structures, and data structures. Students will leverage these foundations to delve into Python modules like requests, PANDAS, and visualization tools.
This class takes an applied approach to programming, starting with programming essentials. Students will then use this knowledge to solve real world problems with computer applications.
Learn to Code will teach high school students to think critically and develop creative, efficient solutions to problems using data and other devices. These are highly valued (and lucrative) skills sought out by employers in every career in every location.
All students who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion and have the opportunity to request a Syracuse University noncredit transcript.
Learning Objectives
At the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Analyze complex problems by thinking computationally and systematically.
- Solve practical, real-world problems using a modern computer programming language.
- Demonstrate the ability to read, write, discuss and code confidently.
- Understand how to code in teams, collaborate with others and manage source code.
- Acquire new programming knowledge independently.
Course Information
Course Prefix and Number: SCN 042
Format: On-Campus (at Syracuse University)
Eligibility: Students must be of rising high school sophomore, junior, or senior status – or a 2024 high school graduate.
Credit: Noncredit
Grading: Pass/Fail
- Residential: $4,095
- Commuter: $3,166
Program rates are subject to change and will be approved by the board of trustees. Discounts and scholarships are also available.
Program Information
Summer College – On Campus: Experience what college is really like: take a college-level course, live in a residence hall, have meals with friends in a dining hall, and participate in activities and events on campus.
“Syracuse University Summer College was far above my expectations. I could have a VR simulation of a college student’s life. I could experience education from a professor and share thoughts about many topics with other colleagues. Also, I had a chance to talk with one of the Syracusans, which enabled me to hear about life at Syracuse University from an insider. Makings acquaintances, including friends and teachers, and working and talking with them is another priceless asset you get from the program.”
— Jaewan P., Summer College – Online Coding: Learn to Code Student, 2020
Course Dates and Details
| Program | Course Dates | Class Time (Eastern Time) | Credit/Noncredit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer College – On Campus | 2-Week Session II: Monday, July 22 – Friday, Aug. 2, 2024 | MTWThF; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Noncredit | Open |
Course Requirements
Technology Requirements
- No prior coding experience is required!
- You must have a Mac or Windows laptop computer. Please note: Chromebooks sometimes struggle with course material.
Typical Day
Tentative Schedule
Each day will begin with a review of previous topics followed by discussion about new topics based on content given to complete before class. In a typical day you will be given the opportunity to practice new techniques before applying to assignments. This will be done as follows:
- Coding Labs: You will be learning basic concepts through this guided tutorial.
- Homework and In Class Assignment: Based on concepts discussed in the lab you will be given the opportunity to practice what you have learned by applying through a series of practical challenges.
- Office Hours: Provided to assist students.
Faculty Bios
Angela Usha Ramnarine-Rieks, Ph.D.
Angela Usha Ramnarine-Rieks teaches courses related data and content management, programming, and change management at the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University. As a researcher, she has a keen interest in understanding the implications in the adoption and adaptation of new technologies. Ramnarine-Rieks is currently part of a research team exploring the socio-technical impacts of the smart grid phenomenon in the energy industry. Exposure to this domain began with postdoctoral work with the smart grid research team at Syracuse University. Her other research track explores integrating computational thinking into literacy. Yes, that means she supports the premise that all should learn to code.