Syllabus for CSC 152: Introduction to Computing: Mathematics/Science Applications (Fall 2017)

• Tues. 2:00 - 3:00 (Holroyd 133 or Holroyd 124)
• Wed. 9:30 - 10:30 (Holroyd 133 or Holroyd 124)
• Fri. 1:00 - 2:00 (Holroyd 133 or Holroyd 124)
• Or by appointment

Topics: This course provides a survey of problem-solving and computer applications for science and mathematics, including data analysis and regression. It includes an introduction to the design and use of electronic spreadsheets, as well as the use of other computational and programming tools such as R and Mathemtica. The course will also include elements of data presentation and visualization. Credit will be given for only one of CSC 151, 152, 153, 154, and 155.

Section & credits

Meetings (Time and Place)

Monday and Wednesday 1:55-3:10 in Holroyd 153 (Section 31)
Monday and Wednesday 3:25-4:40 in Holroyd 153 (Section 32)

Holidays:
Labor day: Sept. 4
Mid-semester break: Oct. 16-17
Thanksgiving: Nov. 22-24

Other important dates:
Classes start: Aug. 28
Midsemester grades due: Oct. 18
Last day to withdraw: Nov. 3
Classes end: Dec. 8
Finals week: Dec. 11 - Dec. 15

Course Calendar Link

Text:

Learning Objectives

• apply problem-solving techniques
• create spreadsheets to display and analyze data, including statistical analysis
• use a spreadsheet to simulate systems
• create and interpret an x-y graph
• write programs that obtain, analyze and present data (e.g. R)
• Use a symbolic computation program (e.g. Mathematica)
• locate needed information electronically
• discuss the role of computers and information in scientific investigations
• create documents that display scientific information including data tables, equations, and so on
• visualize and present data from experiments in PowerPoint

Assessment:

There will be weekly labs as well as a weekly homework. There will be three tests and a final. The various components of the course will be weighted as follows:

• The plus/minus grading system will be used.
• Attendance will be taken.
• Absences, lateness, inattention, etc. will be factored into the lab/class component of the grade.
• Over three unexcused absences may result in the reduction of your final grade.
• Homework and lab assignments will be submitted using the Canvas course management system. If any difficulties using that system are encountering, assignments (zipped up as appropriate) will be emailed. 
• Homeworks and labs are due a week after they are assigned. Labs and homeworks submitted after the test on the relevant material will not be eligible for full credit.
• The lowest of the three test grades will be dropped. The final has a weight equal to two tests. If the final is the lowest grade, it will be counted equal to a test and no test grade will be dropped.
• Make-up tests are given at the discretion of the professor. If you miss a test, you should assume it will serve as your dropped score unless you have met with me to discuss the reason for missing the exam and to schedule a make-up.
• All tests are cumulative, though they will tend to focus on and give more weight to the new material.
• It is your responsibility to keep copies of all of your assignments, tests and so forth at least until you receive your final grade for the course.

Classroom Behavior:

While in the classroom, students should behave in a manner that is neither distracting to nor disrespectful to the professor or other students. Cell phones should be turned off.

Cheating:

Some Tutoring

Student Resources

• Student Guide on how to use Canvas
• Student Guide to Resources, Rights and Responsibilities
• Academic Integrity Policy
• American Disabilities Act
• IT Help Desk Support
• Academic and Learning Support Services
• Library Resources in Canvas
• Library