Java Algorithms: Pathfinding and AI

Price: $399/week
Age: 13 - 17
Skill Level: Intermediate–Advanced
Format: Virtual Tech Camps | Small-Group, Online
Duration: Weeklong

About This Course

Become an Artificial Intelligence star in Java with A* pathfinding and advanced algorithms! Creating the rules of a game and deciding how players traverse it is one thing, but teaching a computer to provide challenges requires an entirely new way of thinking. In this course, you’ll explore how to generate a map and make more advanced games with AI. You’ll use pathfinding algorithms like A* for map generation and to create entities that can traverse distances all on their own. That’s plenty to show off in any portfolio!

Tools: Java

Topics Covered

Implement the A* pathfinding algorithm
Use noise to generate randomness
Procedurally generate maps
Solve programming challenges with logic and code skills

Portfolio-Boosting Transcript

At the conclusion of your child's course, they will receive an official iD Tech transcript outlining the skills they learned over the course of the week.

Learn from the best.

Passion for tech. Unmatched expertise. Personality that brings out the absolute best in your child. With 23 years of experience, we know there's no replacement for the best teacher. It's no surprise that iconic companies like Google, EA, Microsoft, and Disney hire the same talent we do. Our iD Certified instructors possess the whole package of skills that top employers seek.

100% USA-based, adult instructors
Recruited from top universities like Stanford, Caltech, and NYU
Rigorous background and reference checks
Robust training programs and certification
Adherence to American Camp Association accredited guidelines

Instructor Highlights

Chris M.

Software Engineer
at Google

Instructor Highlights

Chris M.

Software Engineer
at Google

“My time as an iD instructor was really formative. I stayed with STEM in college as a Computer Science and Electrical Engineering major, and now I’m working at Google in Chicago. If you find yourself thinking about STEM-related things outside of school, follow that passion. Major in it. Keep pursuing it.”

Instructor Highlights

Aspen C.

Associate Designer
at Bethesda Softworks

Instructor Highlights

Aspen C.

Associate Designer
at Bethesda Softworks

“The spirit of innovation and creativity I felt around my students while teaching Unity led me toward my career as a professional game designer. My time at iD Tech taught me that no dream is too big, and that brilliant ideas can come from anywhere.”

Instructor Highlights

Brian M.

Software Engineer
at Disney

Instructor Highlights

Brian M.

Software Engineer
at Disney

“The opportunity to create an environment of collaboration, inclusion, and creativity was a truly special experience. The skills I honed while teaching at iD Tech led me to my software engineering roles at ESPN and the Walt Disney Company.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pathfinding algorithm?

A pathfinding algorithm finds the shortest route between two points. Ideal for solving mazes and other fun video game puzzles, this is the perfect type of algorithm to challenge intermediate and advanced coders.

Why should my child learn Java?

Used by over 5.5 billion devices worldwide, Java is one of the most popular and versatile programming languages that opens many, many doors for teens. Java, a sophisticated programming language that’s still beginner-friendly, is the perfect springboard for the AP computer science exam, building complex systems, creating apps, and much more.

What college and career opportunities does this course lead to?

Java pops up everywhere from professional hackathons to college-level computer science and other opportunities in STEM. Also, if your teen is interested in pursuing a programming career, internship, or personal project, Java is an absolute must-have. From web and app development to software engineering, Java is key to unlocking a world of possibilities.

Is this course suitable for all skill levels?

This course is intended for students who have completed a related course or have equivalent experience. With our small class sizes, each student will continue to receive individual attention and learn at their own pace.

What is the online camp experience like?

While we are proud to offer world-class experiences on many of the world’s most prestigious university campuses, we also recognize that many families need the flexibility of quality virtual learning! It’s with these families in mind that we’ve adapted the core elements of our flagship camps to an online format with our Virtual Tech Camps.

Like our on-campus programs, Virtual Tech Camps feature structured small-group sessions led by expert instructors. Each week includes live teaching of our signature, cutting-edge curriculum, plus peer collaboration, social time, and independent project work. To complete the experience, our Virtual Tech Camps incorporate all the magic of summer camp including games, challenges, and legendary iD traditions!

What are the technical requirements for this online course?

To run this online course with iD Tech, students will need a Mac or Windows computer, a webcam, and a stable internet connection with access to Zoom video conferencing. Any course-specific installation requirements will be communicated after registration.