Compsci 101:
Introduction to Computer Science
Course Description
Introduction to practices and principles of computer science and
programming and their impact on and potential to change the
world. Algorithmic, problem-solving, and programming techniques in
domains such as art, data visualization, mathematics, natural and social
sciences. Programming using high-level languages and design techniques
emphasizing abstraction, encapsulation, and problem
decomposition. Design, implementation, testing, and analysis of
algorithms and programs. No previous programming experience required.
Due Dates
Course Announcements
- Jan 18, 2017
- If you add the course late or have some trouble with technology,
follow the catchup schedule
- Jan 9, 2017
- First lecture is Thursday, Jan 12.
- First labs are on Wednesday Jan 18 and Thursday Jan 19.
- Fill out the course survey! The link to the course survey for the
first day of class is on Sakai
- You will need to install software for this course in order to use our
programming environment. Instructions are on the course web page on the
"Resources" tab. Try to install them before going to your lab.
You can get help in consulting hours.
See the "Help" Tab on the course web pages.
We don't want anyone getting frustrated over this so go to consulting hours
to get help if you can. If you don't have the software installed by your lab,
still go to lab, they will help you there.
- Add yourself to the CompSci 101 Piazza site if you add the class on
Tuesday Jan 10 or later. I added everyone enrolled as of Tuesday Jan 10
morning.
We use Piazza for questions. You can post anonymously if you want. If
you have trouble installing software for example you could post a question
there. Try to give us as much info as possible as to what you have already
tried and what type of computer you have. You can post questions there on
Python too once we start programming.
- DO NOT PLAN to leave town until after your final exam! Final exam
dates are on the Dates tab under May. There is no final for your lab,
only a final for the lecture period.
- The textbook for this course is a free online book, but we hope you
will give a donation, suggested $15. There is a code for our version of the
textbook. The code will be on the Sakai site for this course in the
announcements.
- What type of computer do I need for this course? This is a programming
course so you will definitely need a computer. Recommend a laptop, any type
will do, Mac or Windows machine. It will be handy to bring it to class and lab as we
do programming in both. A desktop will also work, but you can't bring it to
class, though you should be able to do all your programming on it other than
lecture and lab. If you don't have a laptop in lab and lecture you can work with someone who
does. Note that you need a device that you can install java and eclipse
on. An ipad or simple tablet will not work. Surface Pro works but it is a
smaller screen for development. If you plan to be a CS major, you might
want a bigger screen, thus a laptop. If you are not sure if a device is
appropriate, ask if you can install java and eclipse on it.
Required Background: NONE
This course is designed for those with no programming experience.