Indiana Makes the Grade in Computer Science Education

(image courtesy of Pixabay/Gerd Altmann)

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A national association that represents computer science teachers is praising Indiana for expanding access to computer science and further implementing its use in K-12 classes.

The Computer Science Teachers Association, along with the nonprofit Code.org, says Indiana has implemented robust updates to policies and standards as they pertain to computer science in the classroom.

In their joint report, the 2019 State of Computer Science Education, the groups say Indiana is one of only five states to implement a series of nine policies, developed by Code.org, to increase computer science curriculum. Indiana State Superintendent Jennifer McCormick says advancing computer science education is a top priority. 

“Increasing opportunities for students to further their education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is central to the Department’s mission, as well as that of Indiana’s educators, schools, and partners", said McCormick.

The report cited several examples of Indiana’s commitment, including the development of a comprehensive plan, changes in teacher certifications, and the alignment of existing K–8 computer science standards to high school standards.

The group also acknowledged the Indiana General Assembly for the passage of a bill to allocate $3 million per year for computer science professional development.

“This new report praises the good work Indiana has accomplished and the well-rounded and robust instruction our students continue to receive. This work could not be done without the commitment of our students, school administrators, and classroom teachers. I wish to thank them for their dedication in preparing students for future success,” McCormick said.

McCormick says 62 percent of Indiana high schools offered at least one computer science course in the 2018-19 school, up from 51 percent the previous year.