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Georgia approves K-8 computer science standards

The standards will introduce students to computer science basics and gradually will teach more complex topics such as coding and design.
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The Georgia State Board of Education approved new K-8 computer science standards Thursday. With the goal that all of Georgia’s students will able to contribute effectively to an increasingly technology-driven society, the K-8 standards move computer science education beyond its current offering as a high school elective to a comprehensive K-8 discipline.

According to the Department of Education, the computer science standards were written with national and international frameworks in mind, but ultimately, they are “Georgia-owned and Georgia-grown.”

The standards recommend schools first teach K-2 students computer basics, including the functions of digital tools, technology-driven communication and safe computer use, and introduce new topics as students rise through grade levels, such as coding, website design, and program debugging.

Georgia’s computer science education will also focus on cybersecurity ethics, privacy laws and careers in computer science.

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Before approving the standards this week, Georgia’s Department of Education conducted a survey of administrators, educators and parents in January to collect feedback.

“I like the idea of discussing privacy issues through all grade levels. … Safety is my biggest concern for online savvy students,” said one respondent.

“I believe the standards are in perfect alignment,” said another.

However, there were many concerns regarding the implementation and rigor of the standards.

Several critiques asked if there would be teacher training, if teacher workload had been considered and if there will be sufficient funding.

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“I’m concerned that there are too many standards to be covered in depth during a school year,” one commenter said.

Ultimately, the Education Department said it hopes the standards for computer science will support and inspire Georgia’s students as they grow and learn, empowering students to be successful, responsible and engaged citizens.

Betsy Foresman

Written by Betsy Foresman

Betsy Foresman was an education reporter for EdScoop from 2018 through early 2021, where she wrote about the virtues and challenges of innovative technology solutions used in higher education and K-12 spaces. Foresman also covered local government IT for StateScoop, on occasion. Foresman graduated from Texas Christian University in 2018 — go Frogs! — with a BA in journalism and psychology. During her senior year, she worked as an intern at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C., and moved back to the capital after completing her degree because, like Shrek, she feels most at home in the swamp. Foresman previously worked at Scoop News Group as an editorial fellow.

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