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Methods
CS101 is an immersion course, we'll be learning about computation by immersing ourselves in Python code. The first order of business is to learn how to code. By way of demonstration, we'll be covering a lot of Python code in class. Our starting point will be familiar to anyone experienced with basic high-school algebra. Using this as our foundation, we'll introduce new programming concepts and constructs, step by step, until we've covered most of the tools available to programmers developing small-scale programs (involving what are called procedural abstractions). Our first programs will have between say 10 and 20 lines of code. By the end of the semester we'll be able to manage programs with a few hundred lines of code.Like playing a musical instrument, coding is a skill that can only be developed with practice. Learning to code is hard work but, as you'll find, getting a piece of software to work is extremely satisfying.
CS101 consists of two weekly 75 minute lectures and one weekly 60 minute lab. There will be weekly problem sets, all of which require the development of Python code. Some problem sets will involve hand-written work and diagrams.
Section 3 of CS101 Computer Science I meets TR 12PM in Fulton 250.
Section 4 of CS101 Computer Science I meets TR 1:30PM in Fulton 250.
Note: Provided that there is ample room, you may attend the lecture at either 12PM or 1:30PM. But you are required to take all exams at the time of your official enrollment.
Screens When and Where
Sections 3 and 4 of CS101 will have screen-less classrooms. This means that no open laptops, tablets, or smart-phones will be allowed in Fulton 250. All lecture notes and sample programs will be posted to the course website. If you have special circumstances that require you to bring a screen to class, please see me.Unlike lecture, students are required to bring their laptops to every lab. If you do not own a laptop please see me.