Iowa defines computer science as understanding how and why technologies work, exploring whether and how technology could solve real-life problems, investigating procedures, creating solutions, and learning about computing systems, programming, data, networks and the effects on society and the individual. Learning computer science means learning how to create new technologies, rather than simply using them.
It is the vision of the state of Iowa that all Iowa students will engage in the concepts and practices of computer science through an intentional progression of experiences in order to prepare them to become enterprising citizens that positively impact society.
This vision is accomplished through the CSTA and Iowa standards that weave the Core Practices throughout the Core Concepts. You can find more about computer science in Iowa on the Iowa Department of Education website.
K-12 Computer Science Framework
Computer Science Standards (CSTA)
Iowa’s computer science standards are the CSTA K-12 Standards, developed by the Computer Science Teachers Association. These standards are arranged in grade bands, with expectations at the K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12 level. Iowa’s AEAs are committed to supporting schools as they work to implement the Iowa Core Computer Science Standards.
Our Consultants Provide:
- Consultation and coaching to strengthen instructional practice through classroom modeling, observation, and feedback cycles.
- Professional learning and instructional coaching to help educators integrate computer science into core content areas through project-based learning and curriculum adoption.
- Guidance on using the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to make computer science instruction accessible to all students.
- Support for developing PK–12 computer science pathways and implementing stand-alone or integrated courses aligned with Iowa’s Computer Science Standards.
- SCRIPT (Strategic CS for All Resource & Implementation Planning Tool) facilitation to guide district and school-level planning.
How We Support
Teacher teams (PLCs, CLCs, etc.)
- Learn about the Standards
- Coaching and consultation
- Classroom modeling and debriefing
- Observations and walkthroughs
- Leadership or staff implementation coaching
- Ongoing professional learning with embedded coaching
- Resource alignment and integration
- Facilitated time for planning, reflection, and collaboration with leadership teams (district and/or buildings).
Area schools should contact a member of their AEA Computer Science Team for support.
Iowa’s computer science standards are the CSTA K-12 Standards, developed by the Computer Science Teachers Association. These standards are arranged in grade bands, with expectations at the K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12 level.