Catalog
Description: This course is an
introduction to the use of C++ for the solution of problems in the physical
sciences and engineering through the structured implementation of algorithms on
digital computers. Emphasis is placed on
using good programming principles to develop and code algorithms for solving
problems in math and science, especially methods for searching and sorting data,
iteration, simulation experiments, curve fitting, and processing data
numerically.
NOTE: Prior knowledge of computer programming is
not required.
In this course we consider theoretical and practical issues involved in
creating C++ code to solve problems, especially problems from science and
mathematics. We begin using the basic procedural approach to developing
algorithms in C and to more modern object-oriented design. All applications will be simple console
(text) input/output—no graphics, except perhaps by exporting data to a
spreadsheet application.
Introduction to Scientific Computing is a fun, hands-on course for learning
science and math because it provides an excellent opportunity to consider the
relationship between the theory involved in solving problems in math and
science and the practice of implementing algorithms on a computer.
Textbook: How To Program in C++,
Gaddis, 6th ed.
A good supplemental resource for this class is How To Program in C++ by Deitel and Deitel.
http://www.deitel.com/books/downloads.html
The web site for this book contains a wealth of resources (if you're on the
internet, click on the link above.)
Office hours: MWF: 9:10 - 10:50.
You
may also schedule other times to meet with me by email.
· Quizzes:
These may include on-line or pencil/paper quizzes in various formats
such as multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, short essay, etc. These
are designed to help you get acquainted with the vocabulary and
theoretical concepts to be successful in designing computer programs
in C++.
· Programming
Assignments: This course is all
about inventing C++ code to accomplish various computing tasks. Bearing in mind
that this is your first course in computing science, the programs you will be
asked to write will be very basic, console-oriented (input and output involved
in the program will be limited to ascii text data, not graphics), but it is
hoped you will find them interesting and challenging. A big part of this will involve
debugging your code. This can be quite time-consuming and even frustrating. You
are encouraged to consult with me and your classmates--but ultimately you must
invent your own code and to understand it all by yourself! The programming
projects are listed on the assignments page.
Programs can be up-loaded
· Exams: There will be midterm and final
in-class exams.
Grading: Programming assignments: 55%; Quizzes: 20%; Exams:
25% (10% midterm, 15% final)