A Case Study of Taking AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP): A Student’s Perspective

Abstract

With the increased demand for computer science degrees in the work force, computer science is becoming more prominent in high schools. AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) is a course that serves as a bridge into computer science. Code.org provides a year long curriculum for this AP course to be led by teachers in the classroom. Beyond an analysis of the pass rates of students, and with the recency of the AP CSP course, a reflection of the AP CSP curriculum from the student’s perspective, is in order. This study breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of AP CSP from a student’s perspective. Results show there are many strengths in relation to the Code.org curriculum. However, AP CSP can be a little challenging in motivating and engaging students if not executed properly by the teacher.