Course Title: Introduction to Computer Science
Course Description: This course provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts, principles, and practices of computer science. Topics include programming fundamentals, algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, software development, and ethical considerations in computing.
Course Outline:
- Week 1: Introduction to Computer Science
- What is computer science?
- History and evolution of computing
- Overview of computer hardware and software
- Week 2: Programming Basics
- Introduction to programming languages (Python, Java)
- Variables, data types, and operators
- Control structures (conditionals, loops)
- Week 3: Functions and Modular Programming
- Defining and calling functions
- Parameters and return values
- Modular programming concepts
- Week 4: Data Structures
- Arrays and lists
- Stacks and queues
- Linked lists and their implementation
- Week 5: Algorithms
- Introduction to algorithms and complexity analysis
- Searching and sorting algorithms
- Recursion and iterative algorithms
- Week 6: Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
- Principles of OOP (classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism)
- Encapsulation and abstraction
- Designing and implementing OOP concepts
- Week 7: Software Development
- Software development life cycle (SDLC)
- Version control systems (Git, SVN)
- Software testing and debugging techniques
- Week 8: Computer Architecture
- Basics of computer organization and architecture
- CPU, memory, and I/O devices
- Operating systems and their functions
- Week 9: Databases and SQL
- Introduction to databases
- Relational database management systems (RDBMS)
- SQL (Structured Query Language) basics
- Week 10: Ethical and Social Issues in Computing
- Ethics in computing
- Privacy and security concerns
- Emerging technologies and their impact
Course Assignments:
- Programming assignments covering each topic
- Data structure implementation tasks
- Algorithm analysis and implementation projects
- Object-oriented programming exercises and projects
- Software development and testing assignments
- Database design and SQL queries
- Ethical case studies and discussions
Course Materials:
- Textbook: “Introduction to the Theory of Computation” by Michael Sipser
- Programming language documentation and tutorials (Python, Java)
- Online coding platforms for practice (LeetCode, Codecademy)
- Software development tools (IDEs, version control systems)
- Database management system software (MySQL, PostgreSQL)
- Case studies and examples of software applications
Assessment:
- Programming assignments and coding challenges
- Midterm and final exams covering theory and practical concepts
- Project evaluations (software development, database design)
- Ethical analysis and discussion participation
- Class participation and engagement in discussions and activities
Prerequisites: No prior programming experience is required. Basic mathematical and logical reasoning skills are beneficial.