Although this is a 100-level course, do not expect it to be easy. This course is meant to lay the foundation of your programming experience. Programming and problem-solving are acquired skills, and they take lots of practice. Becoming a computer scientist won't happen in one term, but you should get a great start!
To truly get the most out of this class you will need to attend class regularly, read the text and participate in class. We will be actively engaged in solving problems during class lectures, and this experience cannot be captured by copying someone else's notes.
If you are having trouble, seek help early. The subject builds throughout the semester and keeping up with the material is critical. There are lots of avenues for getting help. Ask questions in class. Work the example
problems. Read the text book. Seek me out -- I'm very accessible by email, during office hours, after class and by appointment at other times. Free tutors are also available. The Computer Science department can give you information, and I will provide it to the class as the schedule is available.
Don't procrastinate on programming assignments! Enough said, I hope.
This class meets in the Linux lab on most Thursdays for hands-on practice. I will give you the handout describing the lab activity the class period before the lab. You should read through it before you come to lab. This will make the lab period much less stressful. You are expected to remain in the lab for the full lab period or until you have successfully completed all work. Many assignments will require further work outside the lab period. You should expect to spend considerable time on the programming assignments (labs and additional programs) outside of the scheduled lab period.
