Course Description
Summary
Have you ever imagined speaking in the language of computers, and transforming your ideas into actions that computers can perform? This course is a gateway to discovering the art and science of programming, a crucial skill that serves as the backbone of computer science. But computer science transcends mere programming. Our actual aim is to nurture your ability to think like a computer scientist.
Computer scientists approach and solve problems using computational thinking. This is an essential skill in the modern age. No prior programming experience is necessary, making this course an ideal starting point for anyone wanting to venture into the realm of computer science, including those from liberal arts backgrounds who want to explore the interplay of technology and society.
This course will introduce you to foundational concepts such as functions and abstractions, data structures, and algorithm complexity, using the Python language. These topics serve as the building blocks for computer science, and pave the way for more advanced topics in the field. Through your exploration, you will not only learn to distinguish what computer science offers as a field, but also gain valuable insights into cutting-edge advancements that are driving innovation and transforming our world.
This course is followed by Introduction to Computer Science 2: Algorithms and Application.
Topics include: Python programming, complexity theory, discrete structures, recursion, object-oriented programming, testing and debugging
Evaluation will be based on active engagement, projects, and a comprehensive final examination.
