About the Class

Introductory Computer Science is a free, semester-long high school computer science course offered at Bletchley Commons. This is a beginners class in computers for those who want more than mere programming instruction. Besides learning to program, you'll also get a broad education in computers. This class is taught in small, personalized sessions, so it's perfect for homeschoolers.

The course starts by teaching the Java programming language. This is a serious language used to build many important programs (all Android phone apps are written in Java). Because of the language's complexity, students will not master it in this half-credit class. Instead, they will gain familiarity, write a few simple programs, and discover how extensive computer programming can be.

In addition to programming, the class also offers a series of “curiosity lessons” that give you an understanding of the entire computer phenomenon so you become more literate in this modern tech world. Ever wondered how the Internet works? Would you like to know what's going on in those tiny microchips? Curious to know how they make those dazzling computer-animated movies? Want to understand how Bitcoin and other crypto-currencies work? And just what is Artificial Intelligence?

These subjects and more are explained in easy lessons that are important, even for students with no inclination toward computers, because this level of understanding will help them in any endeavor they choose
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The course is designed for high school students, but is open to any student 13 or older, and counts as 0.5 credits toward a high school computer science credit. No prior experience is required. Students need a laptop or tablet (something with a keyboard) so they can write Java.

Why Come?

🆓 Free for high school students
🔧 Understand how computers work, from the wires up
☕ Explore big ideas like AI, crypto, and privacy
🧠 Get introduced to the Java programming language
💻 No prior experience required

Location:

Bletchley Commons
411 University Ridge
Greenville, SC 29601

Spring 2027

Fridays, Jan 15 - Apr 9

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Fall 2026

Fridays, Sep 4 - Nov 20

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Course Outline

Session 1: Numbers and How Computers Store Data

Learn how numbers are manipulated in Java. Then discover how numbers, text, pictures, sounds, and movies are stored in a computer's memory.

Session 2: Conditionals and How Computers Think

Learn the conditional Java statements that make your program think. Then explore the switches that make a computer think, how chips are made, and how other computer devices work.

Session 3: Working with Text and How the Internet Works

Practice creating and manipulating text in Java. Then explore the stack that runs the Internet, and the many enhancements that make it sparkle.

Session 4: Loops and the Layers of a Computer

Learn how to get your program to do things over and over. Then discover the hidden but essential parts of every computer, including machine code and operating systems.

Session 5: Reusable Code and the Basics of Computer Graphics

Learn about packing pieces of Java code so they can be used many times. Then explore the basics of computer graphics: color, texture, modeling and rigging.

Session 6: Organizing Data and How 3D Graphics Are Made

Learn about organizing piles of data sensibly. Then explore advanced computer graphics: cameras, lights, animation, and virtual reality.

Session 7: Objects and How Digital Publishing Works

Learn how Java combines data and control into useful chunks of code. Then learn how to create a website, publish a book, and offer streaming music.

Session 8: Built-In Power and What AI Actually Is

Explore the built-in objects that make Java powerful. Then explore the two aspects of intelligence (perception and cognition), and the many pitfalls that make A.I. neither artificial nor intelligent.

Session 9: Building Interfaces and the Origins of Computing

Learn about the Java objects that build fancy user interfaces. Then trace the story of computing from the distant past up to 1970.

Session 10: Fixing Code and the Modern Computer Era

Learn key techniques for making your program work right. Then follow the story of computing from the 1970s to today.

Session 11: Real-World Code and How Math Protects Information

Work with larger pieces of code that do what you need. Then explore protection with math: secure communication, Bitcoin, and other crypto currencies.

Session 12: Sharing Code and Staying Safe in a Digital World

Learn why Java is useful and the ease of sharing code. Then learn about breaking computers, legal protections, and threats to your privacy.