Landscape Reports

landscape report coversA landscape report is an aerial picture of what a state looks like in terms of K-12 computer science education. ECEP recommends that states conduct a landscape report as an initial step in the five-step state change model. Landscape reports accomplish a number of vital strategic tasks in a state initiating state change. When state leadership teams form they are usually confronted with the question ‘what’s next?’ and often with a limited toolbox of resources. By conducting landscape surveys states gain a sense of computer science education gaps, opportunities and existing state education and industry efforts that can support broadening participation initiatives.  

Landscape reports  answer questions like:

  • What CS offerings are currently available to K-12 students?
  • Are those offerings in-school courses or after school activities?
  • What organizations and/or committees are working toward CS for All?
  • Is there adequate CS teacher certification in the state?
  • What kind of teacher professional development is available?
  • How has your state Department of Education helped move CS Ed forward?
  • What is happening in secondary education?
  • What major businesses/industries in the state are reporting job gaps?
  • What would they require of an incoming graduate?
  • Do they offer an intern program?
  • What kind of CS surveying is already being done?
  • Are there partnerships that already exist?
  • What can you learn for other states?

When states collect this information, they can better leverage their allies, identify gaps and move toward state-level CS education reform.

Examples of landscape reports in our ECEP Alliance: