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Striking a balance: NYS CS&DF Standards - and - CSTA K–12 Computer Science Standards

  • 1.  Striking a balance: NYS CS&DF Standards - and - CSTA K–12 Computer Science Standards

    Posted 11-22-2023 10:37 AM

    Hello colleagues,

    Please understand that I am asking this question from a position as a Tech Integration Coach and not a CS teacher. I am curious to know how you are "striking a balance" between addressing the NYS CS&DF Standards as well as the CSTA K–12 Computer Science Standards. I know that there are differences but there are definitely similarities and overlap. Since the NYS CS&CS Standards are to be fully implemented starting 9/1/2024, how do you see the two sets of standards working for you?

    Thank you kindly,

    Angelo Urrico



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    Angelo Urrico
    K-12 Integrated Technology Teacher
    New Paltz NY
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  • 2.  RE: Striking a balance: NYS CS&DF Standards - and - CSTA K–12 Computer Science Standards

    Posted 11-22-2023 05:45 PM
    Edited by David Czechowski 11-22-2023 05:45 PM

    There are many similarities between the NYS's CS&DF and CSTA Standards.  During New York's development process, the CSTA Standards were a key reference.

    In New York, I think schools should be aligning with the CS&DF Standards. 

    1. The CS&DF grade bands align with other NYS Learning Standards.  CSTA groups 2nd grade with K-1, 3rd grade with 5th, and 6th grade with 8th grade.
    2. The CS&DF standards include 2 subconcept areas that CSTA does not: Digital Literacy and Cybersecurity.  There are similar concepts within the CSTA Standards, but not as thorough or as broad as NYS expects.

    Every now and again, I hear folks interested in a crosswalk between the NYS CS&DF Standards and the CSTA Standards, but nothing has ever materialized.  I have some tools and a model for doing this I would be happy to share with anyone who would like to undertake this.

    For me (a CS teacher)...

    • Prior to adoption of the NYS CS&DF Standards, I was tying my lessons and activities to the CSTA Standards.
    • Now, I have been replacing those connections with NY CS&DF Standards.  (Dually aligning content is extra work with no apparent benefit.)
    • However, my school has 3 years of CS electives that are offered.  The NY CS&DF Standards are designed for *all* students.  The 2nd- and 3rd-level courses go beyond the CS&DF and align much closer with the CSTA "3B" standards.  

    Lastly, I'll mention 1 other set of standards, the Standards for CS Teaching.  These are helpful for Administrators, Coaches, Integrators (wink wink), and Teachers.  I find them helpful for reflecting on my own practice.

    I would be happy to discuss any of the above.

    All the best!





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