T-Th 9:05
or
T-Th 11:15
in Olin 155

CS 1110: Introduction to Computing Using Python

Spring 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT ...
What if I have an exam conflict or special requirement? See the exams page for the make-up petition process.
What's this CS 1130/CS 1132 stuff? Historically, engineering students took one of CS 1110 (Java)/CS 1112 (MatLab) and then had to take a self-paced 1-credit course in the other programming language. This was because Java focused on Object Oriented programming, while MatLab focused on scientific computation. With the move to Python (which supports scientific computation) and the addition of new OO features to MatLab, this is no longer necessary.
What if I have a missing lab grade? Contact your section instructor.
WHO ...
Who is my section instructor? See the staff page.
WHY ...
Why do we use Python? We talk about this on the first day of class. Python is a modern, object oriented language that is much more accessible to beginners than traditional OO languages. It is also becoming popular for scientific computation, making it relevant to engineers who do not want to continue on with computer science.
Why is CS 2110 in a different language? CS 2110 is taught in Java, not Python. However, you will learn enough about the principles of object oriented programming in this class that you should be pick up Java with just a little bit of work. We have designe CS 2110 so that the beginning of the course will help you with this transition.
Why do we use ActiveState Python? While your computer may already have Python installed, it is important that everyone use the same version of Python for this class whenever possible. There are a bunch of versions of Python out there, and not all of them are compatible. Exceptions (such as for OS X Mavericks) are on a case-by-case basis.
Why do we use the command shell? As a scripting language, Python is designed with a command shell in mind. There are Integrated Development Environments (IDE) for Python that allow you to work without the command shell. However, the Python IDEs are either (1) buggy, (2) too complicated for this course, or (3) not free. Therefore, we elected to go with the command shell.
Why should I retrieve and save my graded work? First, feedback on graded work is important for you; it helps you determine what you know and what you need to work on more. Second, you need to check for accuracy in grading and summing of points in case you need to submit a regrade. Third, in case of a lost grade (it happens from time to time), we will need proof that you completed the assignment. Fourth, you should use previous work to study for exams and to learn about mistakes to avoid in the future.
WHERE ...
Where are the computer labs? Look at CIT's Public Labs Schedule.
Where are the sections or recitations? All sections/recitations are held in the ACCEL Lab. You get to it through the Engineering Library in Carpenter Hall.
Where's your office? Look at the staff page.
Where are the solutions? When we post solutions, they will be posted in CMS attached to the relevant assignment or exam.
Where are the handouts? Most lecture handouts can be obtained from the lecture summary page. For labs, assignments, and other things, look at Labs, Assignments, and Exams.
Where is my graded homework/prelim? For assignments submitted online (on the course CMS), you will receive feedback on the CMS itself. Hardcopy work will be returned during your lab section, unless otherwise announced.
Where do I request a regrade? For assignments submitted online on the course CMS, submit the regrade request on the CMS. For everything else, go to the consultants in the ACCEL Lab within one week after we return your work and fill out a regrade request. You may hand also hand it directly to an instructor or TA.
Where is almost everything located? In the filing cabinet, with the consultants, in the ACCEL lab or on this website or the CMS.
Where can I find more practice problems? Refer to the exercises in your textbook. You can also find many problems in archived course websites from the CS Home Page. Also, look in the Engineering library for other programming textbooks.
MAY I ...
May I change my partner? You may have different partners for different projects, but you may not have more than one partner for any assignment. Please review the Assignments page.
May I use PyDef or an actual Python IDE?
May I program in a different language?		 You may not use another language. If you want, you may use an actual Python IDE such as PyDef, Wing IDE, or even the commercial Komodo IDE. However, if you do this, you are completely on your own; we only provide support for using a command shell. See our Python page.
HOW ...
How should I submit my homework? Follow the submission guidelines on the Assignments page.
How do I use Python? Look at our Python page.
How do I print in a public lab?
How do I use Net-Print?		 Review the page about Net-Print from CIT.
How do I start an assignment? Read the assignment a few times. Don't expect to absorb it all at once. While reading the assignment, look for clues on what you need to do. When you've figured out the larger tasks, break those large problems into smaller and smaller tasks. Eventually, you can program those smaller tasks!
How do I catch up? I'm lost. Seek help from the CS 1110 staff immediately. We can help you figure out what you need to do.
How do I become a consultant? We will have more information about this later in the semester.

Course Material Authors: D. Gries, L. Lee, S. Marschner, C. Van Loan & W. White (over the years)