CSC 305 - Data structures

Course description:

This course introduces complex data structures such as trees, lists, stacks, and matrices. It also covers the classification of an algorithm by computing its order. The algorithms that will be analyzed include various sorting and searching methods. 

We will study several widely-used data structures from two perspectives: how to use them, and how to implement them in an efficient manner. We will learn terminology for expressing the efficiency of implementations, and techniques for evaluating algorithms to determine their efficiency. We will implement these data structures using the C++ programming language. 

We will learn how we choose data structures to achieve desired programming goals, and how to design and implement new data structures if necessary. 

Course Objectives:

Upon completing this course satisfactorily, students will be able to use a wide range of common data structures in an appropriate manner. Students will be able to identify the data structure that best matches your needs for a particular programming context, and to design and implement your own if necessary. You will be familiar with the concepts and terminology that are used to describe and compare the efficiency of algorithms that implement data structures. 

Course requirements:

• Several HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS, each of which includes a programming component in which you implement some data structure and evaluate your implementation, and an analytical component in which you answer some questions regarding your implementation. These programming assignments are to be done individually by each student — no collaboration is permitted. 

• It is expected that each student will attend most lectures. The instructor may conduct pop quizzes for extra credit during any lecture, including on days with low attendance. 

Textbooks:

1. Zybooks (Required, supplement)

   • Sign in or create an account at https://learn.zybooks.com

   • Enter ZyBook code ASSUMPTIONCSC305TranFall2023 and subscribe.

2. Algorithms in C++, 4th Edition by Robert Sedgewick, Addison Wesley (required)

Class technology:

Brightspace:

All registered students have access to the online BrightSpace class site. Class notes, documents, programming assignments, and individual grades are available via the class site. BrightSpace can be accessed from the school portal.  Please make sure to check frequently the Announcements on Brightspace as well as the school email. 

JetBrains CLion:

Go to https://jetbrains.com to download CLion IDE under Developer Tools category. Note that, you can get a free license with your school email.

Free Online C++ compiler:

In the case you don’t want to install CLion IDE, you can use a free, simple, and portable C++ compiler at https://www.onlinegdb.com/online_c++_compiler

Class attendance

Regular attendance is expected. Attendance will be taken daily. After the second missing class, absences will result in points taken from your class attendance points. (2 points per missed class). Absences due to emergencies need to be documented. Arriving late to class is not allowed. If you are more than ten minutes late, you will be counted as tardy. Three tardy notations count as one absence. You are responsible for the material covered on days that you are absent, as well as all due homework. Students are expected to prepare the class material as indicated by the instructor. 

Evaluation

There will be 6 assignments, 2 tests, and a final exam during the class program. Tests and exams are to be taken during the class time. There are no make-ups for missed tests/exam. Exceptions to this policy will be made only in case of serious illness, injury, or other emergencies. If a test is missed, please contact the professor as soon as possible.

Grading scheme:

• Participant:                   10%

• Assignments:                35%

• Test1:                           15%

• Test2:                           15%

• Final exam:                   25%

Grading scale:

• A (93-100);  A-(90 - 92);   B+(87-89);    B(83-86);   B-(80-82)

• C+(77-79);    C(73-76);    C-(70-72);  D+(67-69);  D(63-66);   D-(60-62)

• F (0-60)

Accommodation Policy

Assumption University is committed to ensure full particiapation of all students in theirs programs. If you have a documented disibility (or think you may have a disability), and, as a result, need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the classes, to complete course requirements, or even benefits from the university services, you are encouraged to contact to the Director of Student Accessibility Services, Julie LeBlanc at jm.leblanc@assumption.edu as soon as possible.

Academic Support Center (ASC)

The ASC provides one-one service to assist students at Assumption University with strategies for academic success. Students will have a choice of meeting a tutor in the ASC on-ground (2nd floor d’Alzon Library) or via Zoom.  

You can make appointments for tutoring at https://asctutoring.assumption.edu or stop by at the Academic Support Center, 2nd floor d’Alzon Library, or calling the ASC at 508-767-7071 during on-ground operational hours (Mon-Thurs 8:30 am-10:00 pm; Fri. 8:30 am-4:30 pm and Sun. 6:00 pm-10:00 pm). For assistance with general study skills or academic planning, please contact either Amy Hurley, Associate Director for Student Success ahurley@assumption.edu or  Allen Bruehl, ASC Director abruehl@assumption.edu

Important dates

• September 7, HW1 is released -- Due on September 21 

• September 21, HW2 is released -- Due on October 5 

• October 5, HW3 is released -- Due on October 19 (extended to October 21)

• October 3, First midterm Exam 

• October 24, HW4 is released -- Due on November 7 

• November 7, HW5 is released -- Due on November 21

• November 7, Second midterm Exam 

• November 21, HW6 is released -- Due on December 5 (No extension)

• December 8, Final Exam 12:30 - 3:00 PM (detail is here)