The goal of technology education at STJ is to instruct and prepare students with the technology skills needed for high school, college and beyond. Technology instruction is designed to be fun and motivational while in a structured and relaxed Christian atmosphere.
Faculty Members
Ms. Victoria Stawik
Ms. Brenna Flynn
Mr. Jordan Schott
Cloud Technology
2 Semesters (TEKS 126.31) ~ Required for all 9th Grade Students
Cloud Technology is a comprehensive and robust course covering a broad range of evolving technology information and skills including keyboarding. Applications taught focus on the core technologies from Google, Microsoft and Apple.
Google apps: Google Drive, Chrome, Search, G-Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, Drawings), Gmail, Sites, Earth.
Microsoft apps: OneDrive Cloud storage, Edge Browser, Bing, Maps, Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Apple apps: iCloud, Safari, Apple OS, iWorks (Pages, Numbers, Keynote), iPhoto, GarageBand, iMovie.
Students are taught in-depth instruction and skills on Office productivity suites from Google, Microsoft and Apple along with electronic presentation fundamentals, basic video editing, audio design and document collaboration. Traversing and understanding the Cloud is explored through the history of the World Wide Web, a study of the Surface Web, Deep Web and Dark Web, navigation strategies with structured Google searches, and utilization of cloud resources. Students will learn proper email etiquette, netiquette (social media etiquette), and correct computer ergonomics. Techniques are taught to control Technology stress and instill self-confidence when using Technology. Students learn about internet safety, computer viruses, cyber security protection, identity theft and cyber warfare.
Computer operations are learned with a focus on user profile basics, operating system essentials, and desktop application usage. Students are taught Computer Science fundamentals which include computer history, binary math and computer programming and game design with MIT Scratch. Computer hardware and electronics are learned with hands-on computer teardowns and virtual computer system builds.
Keyboarding using touch typing with proper technique is practiced daily. Students learn full keyboard memorization, typing accuracy skills, enhanced instruction from structured online keyboarding, game typing apps, typing test, and practice material from multiple disciplines.
TECHNOLOGY COURSE ELECTIVES
Digital Art, Animation & Audio Design
2 Semesters (TEKS 126.42/126.45) ~ Prerequisite Cloud Technology
A fun and practical hands-on course where students draw, animate art and create music using cool computer apps. Students learn technical skills in digital art design, 3D computer animation, 3D printing, audio creation and sound editing techniques. They will use a computer to do independent and collaboration projects in their desired area of interest in digital art, animation, and/or audio design. Digital Art - Computer art, digital drawing and sketching, image editing, digital painting, photo enhancement techniques, photo layers and overlays, and visual color design.
Animation - Computer animation, 3D modeling, special visual effects, motion graphics, digital art for video gaming, storyboarding, animated gif creation, and animated videos. Audio Design - Digital audio design, sound editing and mixing techniques, multitrack recording, voice-over and sound effects, sound synthesis, acoustics, audio loops, and editing video soundtracks.
Engineering Your World - Computer Science
2 Semesters ~ Prerequisite: Grade 11 and 12
Engineer Your World uses a curriculum developed by The University of Texas in collaboration with NASA engineers. This course will engage students in authentic engineering design and computing practices in a problem-solving, inquiry-focused, project-based environment. Students discover the engineering design process, make data-driven decisions, and work in multi-level teams to solve complex challenges. The explore mechanical, chemical, civil, electrical, and aerospace engineering through design challenges. Through the work on these projects, students develop engineering habits of mind and skills needed for the 21st century – creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and collaboration.