Syllabus - Spring 2003

CSC 180 Introduction to Programming C++

Conant Home

CSC 180 Home

Syllabus

Schedule

Notes

INSTRUCTOR:  Donald D. Conant

Phone: work: (360) 754-4877, home: (360) 556-7359

E-mail:   Provided in class.

Web site:  http://homepages.stmartin.edu/fac_staff/dconant

OFFICE HOURS:  By appointment

REQUIRED TEXTS:  To order at Amazon.com click on book title.

	Deitel, H.M. and Deitel P.J., C++ How to Program, 4th edition, Prentice Hall, c. 2003.

ADDITIONAL/OPTIONAL MATERIALS:  You will need Microsoft® Visual C++® 6.0 which has been installed on College lab computers for your use.  A copy of the introductory edition is included with the text for use on your home computer.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  As stated in the Saint Martin's University catalog, this course provides an "introduction to programming and problem-solving through systematic problem definition and the design of appropriate solutions. Computer programming as an art also will be taught in a systematic manner."

In this course I will introduce you to programming, focusing primarily on aspects that are fundamental to the production of efficient solutions for computer-solvable problems.  You will use these tools to complete various basic problems in class and in homework using C++, an industry-wide standard language supported on most modern computing platforms.  The tools to be surveyed include program design methodology, logic and syntax, basic data types and control structures. You will learn the efficiencies and inefficiencies of various structures and limitations of the models presented.

Developing a sense for the automation of basic manual processes using a programming language will be a focus of the course.  You will be asked to model and solve problems using Microsoft® Visual C++® 6.0. 

OBJECTIVES:  

At course completion, students should have:

Experienced a fundamental level of success in using structured programming techniques.

Developed a familiarity with the Microsoft® Visual C++® 6.0 programming environment.

Gained ability to intelligently discuss and develop using algorithms, data types, control structures, functions, arrays, and strings.

Implemented numerous well-designed and efficient basic problem solutions in C++.

TEACHING STRATEGY: 

The class sessions will be a combination of lectures, exercises, homework problems, computer tutorials and discussion. Course content will  come primarily from the assigned textbook. Instructor developed problems, handouts and tutorials will also be used.

Students are responsible for reviewing the class schedule and completing assigned readings, homework problems and other assignments.

A primary focus of the class will be completing homework problems.  I will choose problems that illustrate various programming techniques.  I will ask you to solve these problems using the control structures and other programming features and methods presented in class.  You'll solve problems by using Microsoft® Visual C++® 6.0.  By the time we conclude the course, you should have an awareness of the basic programming techniques available fundamental task automation.

BRIEF COURSE OUTLINE:

Week 1:
Introduction and Compiling C++

Weeks 2:
Algorithms and Decisions

Weeks 3, 4 & 5:
Control Structures

Week 6 & 7:
Components, Functions and Library Functions (Review)

Weeks 8 & 9:
Mid-Term
Random Numbers, Classes, Scope and Iteration

Week 11 & 12
Overloading, Templates and Arrays

Weeks 13, 14 & 15:
Sequential Files and Strings

Week 16:
Review and Final Exam

GRADING:

Grade category and points:

Grade Scale:

Points         Grade
92 - 100       A
83 - 91         B
74 - 82         C
65 - 73         D
0   - 64         F

REQUIREMENTS:

Attendance/Participation:  (10 points)  I highly recommend you come to each class session.  Attendance is not mandatory in the same manner as passing the exams, reading the course material, and doing the homework is not mandatory.  I value class participation.  I like seeing you.  Your presence and participation during each and every class period contributes to everyone's overall learning.

Exams:  (50 points)  A mid-term exam (25 points) and a final exam (25 points) will be given. These exams will test your ability to formulate and solve problems based on material presented in class. The exams will be open book and may have a take home element.

Homework: (40 points)

Successfully completing and understanding each homework assignment is a crucial element in developing programming skills. Homework assignments indicated in bold/italic letters on the course schedule must be completed, compiled and emailed to dconant@stmartin.edu by the beginning of class on the date indicated. Late assignments without prior permission will not be accepted.

In addition to the assignments listed on the course schedule additional assignments will be given periodically throughout the semester. All homework will be evaluated on the following criteria:

Although study groups can be helpful, when it comes to programming it is important that you learn to conceptualize and code solutions on your own.  Discussion within study groups can be useful to grasp a particularly difficult aspect of a problem. Once the problem is understood program develop should be done on your own. A cautionary note, I expect you to turn in your own work. You should use your group as a means to help you hurdle specific problem areas, not to replace your own problem-solving thought process.

Each class period we will review homework problems.  You may be assigned to present and explain your solution to the class.

SPECIAL ASSISTANCE: The Learning Center offers individual learning consultations, study group assistance, handouts and books on study skills, and free peer tutoring in the following subject areas:  math, chemistry, physics, economics, accounting, Spanish, French, and Japanese.  The tutoring schedules are posted outside the door in Old Main, room 212. To learn more about resources available through the Learning Center you are encouraged to drop by room 208 or visit their website:  www.stmartin.edu/academic/learning_center/index.htm.

SPecial needs:  If you need course adaptations or accommodations because of a disability, if you have medical and/or safety concerns to share with me, or if you need special arrangements in case the building must be evacuated, please make an appointment with me as soon as possible.

Contact Information:

Phone:
work: 360.754.4877
home: 360.556.7359