CS 101 Fall 2026 Syllabus¶
Course Catalog Description¶
How to think like a computer scientist. Topics include an overview of the context of computing, computational operations, computational devices, algorithms and data structures, the storage and transmission of data, the presentation of information, and the limits of computing. Students learn about the design and implementation of computational systems, the value of abstraction, problem solving and the ways in which computation impacts society.
Instructors Fall 26¶
Section 1 – Prof. Chao MWF 10:20 - 11:10 AM, King Hall 250¶
Section 2 – Prof. Rizvi MWF 12:40 - 1:30 PM, King Hall 250¶
Office Hours in King Hall 253:
- Mon: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Tues: 10:00 AM - noon, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- OR, stop by if you see me in my office
- OR, contact me to make an appointment (for in-person or online meeting times)
Course Topics¶
Programming
- Mobile apps (AppInventor)
- Python (MakeCode)
Artificial Intelligence
Data
Networking and security
Technology's effects on society
Grading¶
| Category | Description | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Quizzes | (one in each half of the semester) | 10% |
| Quiz 1 - 5% | ||
| Quiz 2 - 5% | ||
| In-class Participation | (labs, worksheets, activities, etc.) | 25% |
| Projects | 25% | |
| Mid-semester Project (App Inventor) - 10% | ||
| Final Project (MakeCode) - 15% | ||
| Exams | 40% | |
| Midterm - 20% | ||
| Final Exam - 20% |
Books/Reading (all free resources)¶
Runestone Mobile Computer Science Principles (CSP)
- Designed for the AP CSP course
- Will not cover every topic or recommend every activity
- Based on the MIT App Inventor development platform
- Create mobile apps for Android or iOS
This book uses another book: Blown to Bits - technology and society
Selected weekly readings will be given from these books and other resources.
Culture of Learning¶¶
Please help us maintain a collaborative environment that encourages questions, provides opportunities for significant learning, and actively involves everyone in discussions.
Professional Conduct¶¶
The ACM Code of Ethics (https://www.acm.org/code-of-ethics) forbids discrimination and harassment of all types. If you believe someone is violating these principles (e.g., by making inappropriate or demeaning remarks), it is your responsibility to take action by informing me or, if you feel comfortable doing so, addressing the individual directly. I will do my best to preserve your confidentiality when addressing the issue.
Inclusive Excellence¶¶
Learning environments should be built on mutual respect and support a diversity of thoughts, perspectives, experiences, and identities. Please advise me regarding any concerns or personal circumstances (including your name's proper pronunciation, any name or pronouns not reflected on MyMadison, or significant extracurricular commitments) that would be relevant to your full participation in this course.
Academic Honesty¶¶
Don't Cheat¶
Students who violate the Honor Code (https://www.jmu.edu/honorcode/code.shtml) will receive a reduced or failing grade in the course. Other penalties may be imposed, and all violations will be reported to the Honor Council. Automated tools may be used on any assignment, at any time, to detect inappropriate collaboration and the originality of submissions.
Generative AI¶
You may use AI technology in general ways that support your learning. However, do not ask ChatGPT or similar tools to do your homework for you. The use of AI is strictly prohibited on homework and exams, so make sure you can program without AI. See the Generative AI in Computing Education Student Guide for examples of inappropriate use.
University Policies¶
Adding/Dropping¶¶
You are responsible for enrolling in courses and verifying your schedule on MyMadison. The last day to add a semester course is September 4, 2026 (permission required after Friday). The last day to withdraw from a course with a W grade is October 27, 2026.
Attendance Policy¶¶
You are expected to participate in every class. I understand that things come up, and you might need to be absent occasionally. That's why I provide make-up opportunities for in-class assignments. If you are not feeling well or suspect you might be ill, please stay at home.
Disability Services¶¶
If you have a documented disability and need accommodations in this course, please register with the Office of Disability Services (http://www.jmu.edu/ods, Student Success Center, Room 1202, 540-568-6705). ODS will provide you with an Access Plan Letter to verify your need for services and make recommendations for the course.
Excused Absences¶¶
Students who are unable to attend class due to JMU sponsored activities (such as sports, band, academic competition, field trips, etc.) or personal religious observances may request reasonable accommodations. Please notify me during the first week of class regarding potential absences so that you and I can plan ahead.
University Closings¶¶
Given severe weather and other unexpected circumstances, be sure to watch for announcements relating to make-up dates. See http://www.jmu.edu/JMUpolicy/1309.shtml for JMU's cancellation policy. Although the schedule may adapt to canceled classes, assignment deadlines generally do not change.
Your Well-Being¶¶
As a university student, there may be times when personal stressors interfere with your academic performance and/or negatively impact your daily life. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health challenges at James Madison University, please connect with the Counseling Center located within the Student Success Center on the 3rd floor. You can learn more about available services by visiting https://www.jmu.edu/counselingctr or calling 540-568-6552. These services are free and confidential. Other available support resources to consider include, but are not limited to, the Office of the Dean of Students, the Health Center, and Learning Strategies Instruction.
Attribution: Unless otherwise noted, the materials on this website are freely available under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.