CSC 121: Introduction to Computer Science I

Instructor: Devon M. Simmonds

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UNCW Catalogue Description

CSC 121. Introduction to Computer Science I (3) Prerequisite: MAT 111 or 115. Problem solving methods and algorithms in a modern high-level programming language. Introduces one or more programming environments. Emphasis on programming style and the design, coding and testing of complete programs. A grade of "C" or better is required for taking any course for which CSC 121 is prerequisite. Two lecture and two laboratory hours each week.

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Course Information

Meeting Days/Time:   MF - 12:00 - 12:50pm (Lecture)

                   W - 11:00 – 12:40 (Lab)

Location:     CI 2006

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Instructor Information

Name: Devon Simmonds

Office Location: CI 2046

Office Hours: MWF 10-11am or by appointment

Phone: (910) 962-3819

email: simmondsd[at]uncw.edu

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Required Text

Starting Out with Java: From Control Structures through Data Structures
by Gaddis/Muganda, ISBN: 0-321-42102-7

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GENERAL INFORMATION

This is the first required course for Computer Science majors. Students may declare a major in Computer Science after completion of CSC 121, 133, and 221 with a grade point average of at least 2.5 on these 3 courses.

Students intending to major in Computer Science are encouraged to take CSC 133 (Discrete Structures) during the same semester as CSC 121. In CSC 133 students will learn the logic and mathematics underlying computer science.

CSC 121 is the first of a three course sequence (CSC 121, 221, 332) on computer programming using the JavaTM programming language. No previous programming experience is assumed. In these courses students will learn many core concepts in computer science and the fundamentals of software design and development. Students will learn basic problem solving strategies and common design patterns in order to expedite the software development process. Students will also discover that computer programming is an art and beyond a program that "works" are issues of aesthetics, simplicity, and elegance.

Every student in CSC 121 must be enrolled in one lecture section and one lab section. You will receive one course grade that incorporates your grades from the lecture and the lab. CSC 121 is not an easy course, but students find it rewarding and well worth the effort. Students should expect to spend 5 to 10 hours per week on the course outside of class time.

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Java Related Software Available for Download

 

1.      JDK 6.0 (setting the path variable)

2.      JDK 6.0 with NetBeans Bundle

3.      BlueJ Download

4.      BlueJ.org

5.      Eclipse