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Mr. Friedman
Introduction to Computers Curriculum
My objective is not to train my students as computer professionals (although some of them will, indeed, find success in such careers). Rather, I strive to get my students comfortable using computer technology in their daily lives. Increasingly, computers are the primary source people turn to when they need information; indeed, nowadays there are many services you can't get except by using a computer.
Not everyone wants to be computer programmer, but most jobs today that pay substantially more than the minimum wage require the use of computers. Health and legal professionals, accountants, and architects all need to use computers. Our military relies more and more on high technology. Teachers use computers. As do business executives. Corporations hire people who can say, "Yes, I know how to set up an Excel spreadsheet and make a PowerPoint presentation." Virtually all universities now insist students turn in their papers electronically.
This is the world my students will graduate into. I want to make sure that, no matter what their background, my students leave Muir ready to compete with in a world increasingly reliant on technology.
Graduated from University of California, Santa Cruz in 1975 with a BA in Computer Science.
Mr. Friedman's muirmiddle.org web page
Information for Parents
Dear Parents (en Español) – What parents need to know about how I run my classes.
How I Grade (en Español) – My policies for how students earn academic, cooperation, and work habits grades.
Classroom Rules (en Español) – What behavior I expect from my students.
Damage/Theft Letter (en Español) – The state education specifies that the parents of students who intentionally steal or damage school property may be held liable for the cost.
Special Message to Eight Graders – Eight graders in particular need to understand my policies so they can get the grades they need to graduate on-stage. I will not change U's to S's at the last minute just so students can graduate on-stage. You must earn the grades you get.
Acceptable Use Policy (en Español) – All Muir students are required to sign a statement that things they may and may not do on school computers.
Course Outlines – Very brief descriptions of what my classes cover. For the full details about each class, see What Students Learn in My Classes (below).
Equipment Loans
I allow my students to borrow digital cameras and other equipment. Click here for drivers and manuals.
Did You know? (Video of interesting facts about computing) ...
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If you have questions, comments, or additions to this web site, contact Paul Friedman, Computer Teacher (paulfriedman7@yahoo.com).