Students who have a background in Computer Science theories, algorithms, and data structures will be provided a look at the history of Computer Science from historical and current perspectives. Topics include an early history of Computer Science, a study of the people who shaped Computer Science, and a discussion of major milestones in Computer Science. Additionally, students will study current issues in Computer Science, including legal, ethical, diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and privacy issues, and how past issues affect modern designs and decision making by computer scientists. Students will be required to work in teams on several assignments. Papers, presentations, and oral presentations are required. Students cannot take and receive credit for this course if they have credit for CSCI-471.

This course is designed to introduce students to the central ideas of computing. Students will engage in activities that show how computing changes the world and impacts daily lives. Students will develop step-by-step written solutions to basic problems and implement their solutions using a programming language. Assignments will be completed both individually and in small teams. Students will be required to demonstrate oral and written communication skills through such assignments as short papers, homework, group discussions and debates, and development of a term paper. Computer Science majors may take this course only with department approval, and may not apply these credits toward their degree requirements.