Computer Programming & Gaming Technologies
Instructor: AJ Keller
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Salutations,
I’m a passionate educator who believes learning should be engaging, creative, and connected to real-world interests. My teaching philosophy is simple: “You cannot force anyone to learn; you can only present a different way of thinking.” I have been teaching Computer Programming and Game Design for 8 years, encouraging students to explore problem-solving, creativity, and innovation through technology.
I have worked in the education field for a little over 20 years and the technology field for 15 years. I received My Bachelor's degree in English & Secondary Education from Roosevelt University. I earned my Master's in Education from Northern Illinois University.
Outside the classroom, I enjoy sports, video games, reading, writing, and painting—all of which inspire my teaching approach. Whether it’s teamwork from sports, storytelling from books, or creativity from art and games, I bring these experiences into my lessons to make learning dynamic, relevant, and fun.
I look forward to working with your students and helping them grow their skills, creativity, and confidence.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING I
Grades: 11, 12
Computer Programming 1 is the first year of a two-year sequence.
Units of study - Functional programming, object oriented programming, computational concepts, computer engineering, robotics, automation, game development, digital sculpting/modeling, and animation
Tasks you will complete -
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Develop problem solving skills through code to solve problems
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Use digital clay to sculpt objects in Blender as well as Unreal Engine
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Design 2D, 3D, 2.5D games using the Unreal Engine as well as Blender
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Use 3D modeling to create digital animation
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Complete regular assignments; both by yourself and within groups
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Use data to create, import and edit spreadsheets as well as documents
Skills/abilities you need to be successful - participation in all projects, work well within a team, understanding of algebraic concepts and algorithms, good note taking skills and analytical thinking
Certification you may be eligible to receive upon successful completion -
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PCEP-30 Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer
Related careers - Computer/Electrical Engineering, Computer Programmer (C++, Java, Python), Game Environment Developer, Unreal Engine Developer, 3D/2D Model Designer, Blender Developer, Data Entry, Word Processor, Office Management Systems
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING II
Grade: 12
Required: 70% or higher in Computer Programming I
Computer Programming 2 is the second year of a two-year sequence.
Units of study - Functional programming, object oriented programming, computational concepts, computer engineering, robotics, automation, game development, digital sculpting/modeling, and animation
Tasks you will complete -
-
Develop problem solving skills through code to solve problems
-
Use digital clay to sculpt objects in Blender as well as Unreal Engine
-
Design 2D, 3D, 2.5D games using the Unreal Engine as well as Blender
-
Use 3D modeling to create digital animation
-
Complete regular assignments; both by yourself and within groups
-
Use data to create, import and edit spreadsheets as well as documents
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Support first year students with assignments and projects
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Take leadership role in regards to various class projects
Skills/abilities you need to be successful - participation in all projects, work well within a team, understanding of algebraic concepts, able to type for extended periods of time, good note taking skills, good listener
Certification you may be eligible to receive upon successful completion -
-
PCEP-30 Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer
Related careers - Computer/Electrical Engineering, Computer Programmer (C++, Java, Python), Game Environment Developer, Unreal Engine Developer, 3D/2D Model Designer, Blender Developer, Data Entry, Word Processor, Office Management Systems
Mr. Keller can be reached at (815) 786-9873, extension 244, or via email at AKeller@ivvc.net.
https://www.facebook.com/IVVC-
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