Computer Science Foundations

In this program students will learn the intellectual concepts and skills essential for advanced work in computer science and beneficial for computing work in support of other disciplines. This program is introductory, yet rigorous. Students will have the opportunity to achieve a deep understanding of increasingly complex computing systems by acquiring knowledge and skills in mathematical abstraction, problem solving, and the organization and analysis of hardware and software systems. The program will cover material such as algorithms, data structures, computer organization and architecture, logic, discrete mathematics, and programming, in the context of the liberal arts. The program is compatible with the model curriculum developed by the Association for Computing Machinery's Liberal Arts Computer Science Consortium. The program content will be organized around four interwoven themes. The Computational Organization theme covers concepts and structures of computing systems from digital logic to the computer architecture and assembly language supporting high-level languages and operating systems. The Programming theme concentrates on learning how to design and code programs to solve problems. The Mathematical theme helps develop mathematical reasoning, theoretical abstractions, and problem-solving skills needed for computer scientists. A Technology and Society theme explores social, historical, or philosophical topics related to science and technology. We will explore these themes throughout the year through lectures, programming labs, workshops, and seminars. (Richard Weiss will teach winter only, Wan Bae and Sara Rose will teach winter & spring)