Date: Wed, 20 Nov 1996 23:18:12 GMT Server: NCSA/1.5 Content-type: text/html
The instructor
with the assistance of Nicolae Duta
duta@cs.uiowa.edu
The course
The assignments
Course grades will be determined on the basis of the resulting final
distribution of numerical scores. My current expectation is that about a
sixth of the class will get A grades (that is, A+, A or A-), about a
third will get B grades, and another third will get C grades. However, I
reserve the right to adjust these proportions to better reflect overall
class performance. For example, if it turns out that this class does
somewhat better than expected, then there will be more good grades;
if it does worse, then there will fewer good grades. I will periodically
provide updated information about the expected distribution of grades as we
go along through the semester so you will know pretty much where you stand.
The texts
The schedule
week. topics [readings]
The fine print
The class
Gregg Odén
[E221 SSH, 335-2444; also 101c MLH]
oden@cs.uiowa.edu
Problem solving is a pervasive human activity but some people are better at it
than others. Part of this difference in performance is due to differences in
knowledge of effective problem solving methods. Because good problem skills
are particularly important for computer programing, the art and craft of
problem solving has become rather well developed within the field of
computer science. The techniques that have evolved within computer science
are general ones that apply to non-computer problem solving as well.
In this class, we will examine these techniques as they apply to
problems in general and in the context of being able to make computers do
what you want them to do. Students will get extensive experience in
performing exercises on the computer both in and out of class.
These exercises will be done in a strongly supportive computing environment;
no prior experience with computers is presupposed.
There will be two midterms exams each covering one section of the course as
shown on the schedule (over) and a final exam covering the third section plus
the course as a whole. In addition, there will be homework assignments every
week or so for the first half of the course and some sort of course
project during the latter half. Exams 1 and 2 will count 10% and 20% toward
the course grade respectively, the homework will count 20%, and the project
and final exam will each be 25%.
How to Solve Mathematical Problems by Wickelgren. [W]
The Analytical Engine: An introduction to computer science using HyperCard
by Decker & Hirshfield. [AE]Section I: Problem Theory & Computer Fundamentals
EXAM 1: 9/20
Section II: Methods & Machines
EXAM 2: 10/30
Section III: Formal Approaches and Extensions
FINAL EXAM: 12/15