American University of Sharjah (AUS) recently held a special Computing Camp designed to help high school students learn about the dynamic field of computer science and engineering. The camp highlighted the university’s focus on engaging with and promoting research and STEM subjects within the larger community.  

The five-day computing camp introduced students from grade 10—12 to various aspects of engineering design and innovation. Participating students came from schools that are part of the Sharakah program, a partnership between AUS and select high schools across the country. The students engaged in a series of experiments and hands-on activities, related to various topics in computer science and engineering. They also explored new ways of looking at science, and developed essential skills necessary for their future university life.

The camp focused on a wide variety of topics ranging from web development, robotics, smart homes and Internet of Things (IoT), mobile apps, programming, cyber security, and more. Students were introduced to topics that included Digital Systems Design: Basics in Electricity, Boolean Logic Principals, Circuits implementation and accompanying skills, Programming in C++: Algorithms, Variables, Control and Conditional Statements, Loops, Web Development: HTML basics, Mobile Application Development: Android Apps, Smart Home Development: Programming IoT devices and Interfacing with Sensors, Relays, and LEDs, Robotics Building and Programming: Programming Robots to solve problems or achieve certain tasks, and Focus on University Required Soft Skills: Presentation skills, Teamwork skills, Problem Solving Skills.

With the help and guidance of faculty members from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, the camp helped students build their technical and soft skills through presentations, problem solving, teamwork, communication, and time management. A competition was also held at the conclusion of the camp.

Dr. Fadi Aloul, Professor and Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, and organizer of the event, spoke about the goal of the camp and said:

“The AUS High School Computing Camp aims to help high school students strengthen their soft skills and technical skills in engineering design and innovation. The students got to learn different aspects of computer science and engineering and touched on things we do in our daily lives including programming, mobile apps, designing smart homes, controlling Internet of Things devices, programming robotics and dealing with cyber security.

“It is also a great chance for students to utilize and invest their time during the Spring Break into learning new ideas and concepts that will benefit them in their future careers,” he added.

Hadi Kiwan, a grade 12 student from Australian International School—Sharjah, said:

“I really enjoyed programming in C++ the most, with building the robots coming a close second. The camp was really fun and educational. It surpassed my expectations!”