Public course syllabus
Computer Systems: Building the Neural Net
A Computer Systems course exploring how hardware, operating systems, data, networks, security, automation, web systems, and virtualization work together. It prepares students for a later Systems Architecture course focused on design choices, boundaries, tradeoffs, reliability, and architecture defense.
Course overview
Computer Systems: Building the Neural Net is a systems foundations course. Learners connect hardware, software, data, networks, programming, security, and evidence through a continuous “neural net” systems model rather than treating computer topics as unrelated tool tours.
Audience and pace
Grades 9–12. The scheduled course runs for 18 weeks at 210 instructional minutes per week.
What you will learn
- Trace how components, operating systems, networks, information, and programs form dependent systems.
- Build small programs and structured digital artifacts using evidence, testing, revision, and accessibility.
- Reason about privacy, security, source quality, career pathways, and real user needs.
Course structure
The course moves through systems and information foundations; digital creation and data; digital citizenship and careers; computers and networks; programming and decisions; and an integrated portfolio/defense.
Learning evidence and assessment
Learners create system maps, source/evidence records, data and digital artifacts, programs, test evidence, revisions, and portfolio entries. Assessment values inspectable reasoning and required function over a polished but unsupported claim.
Expectations and boundaries
Use approved learning environments, preserve source and privacy boundaries, and do not modify real systems or networks outside assignment scope. Programming and tool work must show the learner’s own understanding and revision evidence.
Capstone
The Neural Net Architecture Dossier and Defense integrates technical artifacts, tests, accessibility, revision, limitations, and a systems explanation for a real audience.
Access and support
Reader activities, browser tools, and structured alternatives support the core course. Contact the instructor for accessibility or approved-environment support.