The Maine Department of Education (DOE) has launched a new statewide Computer Science Landscape Study to better understand how computer science, computational thinking, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and emerging technologies are currently being experienced in Maine schools. The Maine DOE has contacted Maine educators directly by email to request their participation in the study.
The goal of the Computer Science Landscape Study is to help ensure all Maine students have access to meaningful and engaging computer science learning experiences.
Computer science education can look very different from one Maine school to another. In some schools, students may take dedicated computer science courses. In others, coding, computational thinking, physical computing, AI, or cybersecurity may be integrated into science, mathematics, library, technology, career and technical education, or other learning experiences.
The Study will explore areas including computer science instruction and curriculum, access to hardware and physical computing, AI use and readiness, cybersecurity education, professional learning, educator confidence, school and district supports, and barriers that may impede the expansion of opportunities for students.
Findings will help the Maine DOE identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities across the state and make more informed decisions about future resources, professional learning, programs, partnerships, and supports for Maine schools. Understanding where computer science is not currently happening is just as important as understanding where it is.
The results will also contribute to Maine’s broader work to strengthen computer science education statewide, alongside the forthcoming updated Maine Computer Science State Plan and Maine Computer Science Integration Framework.
Questions about the Maine Computer Science Landscape Study or to inquire about participating, please reach out to Allison Braley, Computer Science Specialist, Maine Department of Education. To learn more about computer science in Maine, visit the Maine DOE website.
