How to Succeed in CS35
We have outlined the skills and knowledge that this course promises
to provide you. For these promises to be upheld, you will need to
commit to the steps outlined below. CS35 is substantially
faster-paced than CS21, covering a broad range of topics. To succeed
you should:
- Attend class
The primary introduction to course material is
through class lecture. Additionally, we often do learning exercises
during class, which give you immediate experience with the material we
are covering. While we are more than happy to help with any material in
office hours, priority will be given to students who attend and
participate in lecture. Office hours are not to make up for missed
lectures.
- Do the assigned reading before the first lecture each
week
You should skim the assigned pages, focusing on the
conceptual ideas rather than the details of any C++ code. This will
prepare you for lecture and prime you for the participation
exercises.
- Participate actively in the learning process
Showing up
is necessary, but not sufficient to succeed in the course. To fully
develop your analytical skills, you are expected to participate in
class discussion. This includes asking questions during lecture
portions and engaging your peers during short class exercises.
Studies show active involvement is the number one determinant of
student success.
- Come to lab prepared
Lab will introduce new content and
be an opportunity to work in teams on paired assignments.
Lab attendance is mandatory.
-
Start the lab assignments early
This is not always easy to
do, but if you can get in the habit of doing this, you will be much
better off. As the labs get longer and more difficult, starting early
will give you plenty of time to mull over the lab problems even when
you aren't actively writing your solution. Also, when we give you two
weeks to complete a lab, we expect the lab will take significantly
more time than a one-week lab. Therefore we expect you to make
substantial progress during the first week.
-
Practice, practice, practice
The only effective way to
learn the material and pass the tests and the final is to consistently
do the labs.
-
Seek help early and often
Because course material builds
on previous material, it is essential to your success in this class
that you keep up with the course material.
-
Attend CS35 Study Sessions
The student Ninjas hold
evening study sessions each week. You are encouraged to participate
in these sessions. The Ninjas will help you prepare for tests, will
provide additional instruction in programming concepts, and will
provide friendly assistance on your lab assignments.