Foundations of Computers, Electronics & Cyber Careers

Class Summary

This class introduces students to how computers work from the inside out. Students will explore the basic parts of a computer, how electronic circuits power devices, and how information moves through hardware and software systems. The course connects physical components—like circuits, sensors, and processors—to digital concepts such as data, logic, and simple programming.

Students will learn how electronics and computing are used in everyday technology including phones, gaming systems, robots, smart devices, and the internet. The class also provides an overview of cyber and technology careers, helping students understand the many job paths available in fields such as computer engineering, software development, electronics, networking, data, and IT.

Hands-on activities, simple experiments, and beginner coding projects help students build confidence and curiosity while developing strong technical foundations.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this class, students should be able to:

  • Identify the main components of a computer and explain what they do

  • Assemble a PC and troubleshoot issues related to assembly

  • Understand how electricity flows through simple circuits

  • Explain the difference between hardware, software and firmware

  • Perform basic operating system administration for both Windows and Linux

  • Use a linux (bash) shell to perform basic administrative tasks and troubleshooting

  • Understand how data is processed, stored, and transmitted

  • Understand numbering systems (binary, hexadecimal, decimal) and be able to convert between each

  • Identify and understand the purpose of common networking hardware

  • Apply logical thinking to solve technical problems

  • Recognize how math, science, and creativity connect to technology careers

  • Describe different cyber and technology careers and what skills they require

  • Understand that not all the interesting problems have been solved

Attributes of Students Enrolling in This Class:

Students enrolling in this course should:

  • Be curious about how technology works

  • Embrace failure and frustration as part of the learning process

  • Enjoy hands-on learning and experimenting

  • Be willing to ask questions and try new ideas

  • Have patience when troubleshooting problems

  • Be comfortable working independently and in teams

  • Show responsibility when using electronic equipment

  • Be comfortable applying math concepts up to a pre-algebra level

This class is designed for beginners—no advanced technical experience required.


Basic Knowledge & Skills Recommended

Math & Logical Thinking

  • Basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponents)

  • Introductory algebra concepts (variables, simple formulas, patterns)

  • Understanding cause-and-effect relationships

Science & Electronics 

  • Basic understanding of electricity (on/off, power, energy)

  • Familiarity with simple scientific concepts like voltage and current (helpful, not required)

Computer & Technology Skills

  • Basic computer operation (typing, using a mouse, saving files, using applications)

  • Ability to ‘touch type’ recommended (consider using online typing classes)

  • Familiarity with common devices (computers, tablets, phones)

Coding & Computational Thinking

  • Ability to follow step-by-step instructions

  • Ability to extrapolate solutions from reference examples

  • Exposure to beginner coding platforms (Scratch, block-based coding, or Python basics) is helpful but optional

*Please see the Course Schedule page for locations, dates, and times*

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