Text(s)/Materials:

Materials for this course have been developed by the Mathematics Team.
Reference text: Lambert & Nance. (1998) Fundamentals of C++.Cincinnati, OH: South-Western Educational Publishing. Software used: Borland C++, V 5.02

Course Description:

This one-semester course is designed to teach the fundamental concepts of computer programming. During the first part of the course students write programs to solve numerous problems presented in the context of an environment called SAMI the "Robot." These problems are designed to help the students learn about programming logic, branching, looping, and functions. Following the SAMI unit the course emphasis is on various program algorithms (such as finding the lowest common divisor, sorting an array), data structures (such as arrays, structures, strings), and programming processes (such as manipulating data files, passing parameters by value and by reference). The semester ends by using "turtlegraphics" to provide an environment in which recursive programming is practiced. Throughout the course there is an emphasis on proper programming techniques, such as top down design and appropriate documentation.

Teaching and Learning Methodology and Philosophy:

The teaching philosophy in this class is based on the idea that students learn by doing. There are frequent short classroom discussions about various components of the language followed with assignments related to applying those concepts and principles. Many assignments are progressive in nature, with numerous problems building on previous work. Sometimes the problems are designed to promote classroom discussion about better ways of approaching the solution.

Student Expectations:

Students are expected to be involved in class discussions and explorations. They are expected to complete all assignments in a timely fashion. All programs that are submitted are expected to be in a structured form that is well-documented.

Assessment Practices, Procedures, and Processes:

Students will be assessed upon their participation in and contribution to the class, the quality of the programs they submit, and the personal growth they exhibit in their ability to write computer programs.

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