CS 32: Computational Thinking and Problem Solving (original) (raw)

Semester:

Offered:

This course is an introduction to computational thinking, useful concepts in the field of computer science, and the art of computer programming using Python. It meets MW 12:45-2pm in SEC 1.321; you may simultaneously enroll in another class at these two times. It also meets for a mandatory session later in the week; you must enroll in either a sesson on Thursdays from 11:15am-12:30pm or on Fridays from 12:45pm-2pm (both meet in 114 Western Ave 2111+2112).

Significant emphasis is placed in the class meetings and assignments on learning to use computers to solve real-world problems. I will present new material on Mondays and Wednesdays, and then run Fridays as active learning sessions and an opportunities to start the large programming problem sets together. Throughout the class, I'll introduce concepts and techniques only as they are needed to help solve the problem confronting us. You will learn how to go from an ambiguous problem description to a running solution so that you leave the class knowing how to instruct computers to do what you want them to do. You do not need to have any prior experience in computer science or computer programming.

Prerequisites: None. Antirequisites: This course is equivalent to Computer Science 50 (CS 50) in terms of course credit and fundamental learning outcomes. Students should take either CS 32 or CS 50.