STEM

Project Lead the Way Becomes an Endorsed Provider for AP Computer Science Principles

The College Board formally endorsed the nonprofit’s CSP course, allowing students who take the course to take the AP CSP exam.

• By Sri Ravipati
• 05/03/16

The College Board has formally endorsed Project Lead the Way’s Computer Science Principles (CSP) course, ensuring that all students who take the course will be able to take the corresponding Advanced Placement exam to receive college credit.

After an extensive review of PLTW’s CSP curriculum, course syllabus and professional development program, College Board’s AP program concluded that the full-year course for high school students aligns with AP CSP exam standards.

PLTW’s CSP course is designed to help students develop programming expertise by building up their computational thinking abilities and introducing professional tools, using Python as a primary tool. Project topics include app development, data visualization, cybersecurity and simulation. For teachers, PLTW’s professional development model provides all course materials, lesson plans, as well as additional support and materials they may need.

The course also aims to expand knowledge of careers paths that use computing, helping students to get an early start on preparing for the workforce. Since last summer, PLTW and the College Board have partnered on a program to encourage student participation in computer science, engineering or biomedical science courses. Students in AP + PLTW can receive a student recognition for completing STEM courses, which indicates to colleges and employers that they are interested in STEM careers. To earn an AP + PLTW student recognition, they must pass three courses: one AP; one PLTW course; and a third course from either AP or PLTW.

“Computer science knowledge and skills are essential for our country’s economy and security,” said Vince Betram, the president and CEO of PLTW. “The College Board’s endorsement of PLTW’s Computer Science Principles course is another important part of our ongoing partnership to engage more students in computer science and prepare them for the vast college and career opportunities available in this growing, in-demand field.”

Further information about the endorsement and the student recognition program can be found on the PLTW site.