Syllabus

Syllabus: Programming 1


INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL

At least three 3 1/2 inch double sided, high density disks.
Savitch, Walter Java: An Introduction to Computer Science & Programming
Prentice Hall, 1999. ISBN 0-13-287426-1.


Back To Top

COURSE DESCRIPTION
Java; An introduction to problem-solving methods and algorithm development for computer programming. Functional and design specification coding, testing and documentation are emphasized in the development of good programming techniques. Students should be aware that the level of abstract reasoning involved in this course mirrors that of a college level mathematics course. 3 class hours and 2 lab hours per class.


Back To Top


RATIONALE
Java has a high degree of computer portability. It is becoming the language of choice for much new software development, especially for use on the Internet, where programs must be able to run on different types of machines. Java is an object-oriented language similar to C++ that may be used to easily develop GUI applications.

Java is used to introduce the strudent to programming concepts. Topics such as variable definition and manipulation, decision structures, repition structures, arrays, files, GUI elements, methods, procedures, and parameter passing are introduced in this course. The focus of the course is to learn introductory programming concepts using Java as a tool.


Back To Top


COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Regular Class and Lab Attendance –

Students are expected to attend every class and lab meeting. If a student is absent, he/she is responsible for the material covered, for any work due, as well as any announcements made at that time. More than three class hours of unexcused absences may result in your being dropped from the class.

Attendance and being-on-time are important and expected. Since attendance and class participation are graded and since we cover material in class that is not covered in the book, any absence can adversely affect your overall grade. Quizzes and tests can not be made up.


Back To Top


COURSE OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this course, the student should

To describe, and use effectively, key concepts of programming
To define key terms and describe the steps involved in solving problems using a computer.
To select and use the correct data types in solving a problem, and to describe the advantages and disadvantages of different data types.
To describe the difference between and write code for applications and applets.
To find syntax, runtime, and logic errors in code.
To trace code and show what the output would be.
To design, code, compile, run, test programs written in Java.
To use system input and output, data, control structures, nested structures, types, functions, methods, arrays, text and binary file operationsm objects, classes, and GUI’s

Back To Top


METHOD OF INSTRUCTION
The major methods of instruction are lecture, problem solving exercises, and software demonstrations on an IBM PC. Most lab time will be spent doing class works, which are short stand-alone programs that do a specific job. Students will be required to design, write, compile, test, debug and document 5 major programs (labs), primarily on their own time.


Back To Top


GRADING
Labs (5) 30%
Classroom Participation 10%
ClassWorks(12-20)/Homework 20%
Tests(3) 30%
Quizzes(4-10) 10%

Back To Top


PLAGIARISM
Definition of Plagiarism:

“Take and use another author’s thoughts, writings … as one;s own.”

All plagiarized work (labs, tests, home works, etc.) will be graded as a zero AND the final grade will be lowered by one letter grade for each occurence.

A student allowing another student to use his/her lab work shall also receive a zero grade for the lab. Assisting another student in lab is acceptable provided the student does the work himself.


Back To Top


INTENTION
May we be protected together.
May we be nourished together.
May we work together with great vigor.
May our study be enlightened.
May there be no hatred between us.

(A Hindu Chant)


Back To Top


ASSIGNMENTS
Lab work must be done on an IBM compatible with Java. The software neccessary may be able to be downloaded from Sun Microsystems at the following location:

http://java.sun.com/products/jdk/1.2/download-jdk-windows.html

Students are expected to spend at least six hours per week outside of class on assignments. Open lab time will be posted outside the lab after classes begin. Check the schedule regularly to determine when the equipment is available. Due dates will be given when a lab is assigned. When appropriate, assignments must be shown to the instructor during lab time. Assignments must be submitted on time to receive full credit. Late labs are downgraded 10% for each class (or part of a class) that they are late. All labs must be passes in as hard copy and contain the student’s name, class, problem description (algorithm), program listing (source code), and output. ClassWorks will be run for the instructor during the lab time (no hard copy is needed). ClassWorks will also have deadlines.

Tests can not be made-up unless excused by a doctor’s note or arranged with me beforehand.

All students are entitled to a safe environment that is conductive to learning. Students are expected to behave properly in the classroom, which includes paying attention and actively learning, and refraining from making inappropriate comments, and acting courteously toward each other.

Back To Top


LEARNING ACCOMMODATIONS
Students who have needs because of a learning disability or other kinds of disabilities should feel free to discuss this with me and/or directly with the Learning Accommodations Center, F113 (Student Center), 978-556-3654.