Course Description

CMS 167A/167B Introduction to Computer Programming: Introduction to fundamental aspects of programming, focusing on problem solving, software design concepts, and their realization as computer programs. Topics include: variables, procedural abstraction, control structures, iteration, representation of numbers, and data types. Introduction to high-level programming language to gain mastery of these principles provided in classroom activities and closed laboratory experiences.

Required Text

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTING & PROGRAMMING with JAVA, A MULTIMEDIA APPROACH by Mark Guzdial and Barbara Ericson

Topics:

• Basic sytax and symantics of a high-level language (Java)
  

• Variables, types, expressions, and assignment
  

• Simple I/O
  

• Conditional and iterative control structures
  

• Functions and parameter passing
  

• Objects and Classes
  

• Multimedia: pictures and sound
  

• Turtle graphics and Java 2D graphics
  

Learning objectives:

1. Analyze and explain the behavior of simple programs involving the fundamental programming constructs covered by the topics.
2. Modify and expand short programs that use standard conditional and iterative control structures and functions.
3. Design, implement, test, and debug a program that uses each of the following fundamental programming constructs: basic computation, simple I/O, standard conditional and iterative structures, and the definition of functions.
4. Choose appropriate conditional and iteration constructs for a given programming task.
5. Identify natural objects and methods as parts of programs; implement and test objects and methods in Java
6. Describe the mechanics of parameter passing.

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

Students learn by reading and by working problems. Learning consists of hooking new concepts and techniques into previously mastered concepts and techniques. Long term success requires keeping-up with the work so proper connections can be made. An instructor's primary tasks are to require a suitable amount of appropriate work and to help students make individual connections (student backgrounds are different so ask questions).

Software and Hardware Topics

• We will use DrJava as our main software tool. It is free from DrJava.org and works on PCs and Macs.
• For a class lab we will use the Mac Lab in Bush 2xx.
• Please, buy a USB memory stick (256K or greater) to store your data.
• You are encouraged to install DrJava on your own computer.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS and WEIGHTED VALUES [CMS 167A and CMS 167B]

Learning Activities at 200 points [2/7]

Weekly Quizzes
Homework: Will be randomly collected and graded; normally 5 problems will be graded
In class activities: turn-in during class
Programming Assignments

Exams [5/7]

3 hour exams at 100 points each, [3/7]
final exam at 200 points [2/7]

OTHER INFORMATION

Attendence Policy

You are expected to attend class. In-class activities are sometimes collected at the end of class and can not be made-up.

Missed Exams

If you wish to make-up a missed exam you must make arrangements to do so before the regular exam time. Missed quizzes will not usually be made-up.

How to get a good grade

1. Do your homework on-time.
2. Make sure you understand each concept and each question and its solution.
3. Ask questions whenever you are in doubt.

How to maiximize your learning

Same as How to get a good grade.

Disability Information

Rollins College is committed to equal access and does not discriminate unlawfully against persons with disabilities in its policies, procedures, programs or employment processes. The College recognizes its obligations under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to provide an environment that does not discriminate against persons with disabilities.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

If you are a person with a disability and anticipate needing any type of academic accommodation in order to participate in this class, please make appropriate arrangements with Lisa Marsh, CRC, Disability Services Coordinator, located in the Thomas P. Johnson Student Resource Center, (407) 646-2354, e-mail lmarsh@rollins.edu.

Honor Code Information

THE ACADEMIC HONOR CODE Membership in the student body of Rollins College carries with it an obligation, and requires a commitment, to act with honor in all things. Because academic integrity is fundamental to the pursuit of knowledge and truth and is the heart of the academic life of Rollins College, it is the responsibility of all members of the College community to practice it and to report apparent violations. The following pledge is a binding commitment by the students of Rollins College:The development of the virtues of Honor and Integrity are integral to a Rollins College education and to membership in the Rollins College community. Therefore, I, a student of Rollins College, pledge to show my commitment to these virtues by abstaining from any lying, cheating, or plagiarism in my academic endeavors and by behaving responsibly, respectfully and honorably in my social life and in my relationships with others. This pledge is reinforced every time a student submits work for academic credit as his/her own. Students shall add to all papers, quizzes, tests, lab reports, etc., the following handwritten abbreviated pledge followed by their signature:“On my honor, I have not given, nor received, nor witnessed any unauthorized assistance on this work.”Material submitted electronically should contain the pledge; submission implies signing the pledge.