CIS 3020 Part 1

Introduction to CIS

Introduction to:

• The art and science of programming
• The fundamentals of computer science
• The basic concepts of Object Orientation:
  • Abstraction - representing the key features
  • Polymorphism - "many forms"
  • Inheritance - reuse of existing code from ancestors
  • Encapsulation - containing and controlling access to

What this course entails

• This course is not a Java programming course
• "Introduction" does not mean "easy"
• Prior programming experience is strongly recommended
  • in none, take CIS 3022/3023
• This course moves quickly, so attempt assignments early
• Don't get discouraged if you feel confused after one week of class. You hopefull will feel more comfortable by the 3rd week.

Philosophy

• Goal is to learn fundamental principles of programming and obtain an overview of the field of computer science.
• This goal is independant of any language
• Java is used to make these principles concrete but "learning Java" is not the primary goal of the course.
• We will not cover most or all of Java.
• We will teach the basics with emphasis on thinking and analysis.

Class Web Page

WebCT/Vista
Douglas Denkel's Homepage

• Announcements, homework assignments, etc. will be posted here.
• You are responsible to be aware of what information is there.
• Check it frequently -- no less than every other day!

Lecture Notes

• Copies of the lecture slides are available in the Lectures folder in WebCT/Vista
• These slides do NOT contain everything on my slides to encourage you to come to class.
• You are strongly encouraged to print a copy of these notes.
• Having a copy will make taking notes significantly easier!

Grading

Option 1 15% 20% 30% - 20% 15%

Option 2 15% 15% 15% 20% 20% 15%

Examination 1 Examination 2 Examination 3 Final Pop quizzes and in class exercises Group/Ind Homework Assignments

What to Expect

• Difficulty: This course has had a drop rate as high as 33%
• Effort Required: Expect to spend a minimum of 10 hours/week
• Intended for: Those needing a firm foundation in CS principles (majors)
• Education Value: Understanding the vocabulary of CS and concepts of OOP (Object-Oriented Programming)

Necessary Skills

• Helpful to know Java, but not a requirement
• Prior programming experience is helpful
• Willingness to work outside of class
• Willingness to work in groups
• Self discipline
• Ability to tolerate frustration
• Ability to switch between high and low level views
• Ability to think abstractly
• Ability to see what is actually there:

      This is the
      the answer

• • The computer executes exactly what you give it
  • The ability to see the duplicate "the" can greatly help in debugging code