Computer Science 110 is a broad introduction to computers, the Internet, information representation, and the art of computer programming. The course begins with an introduction to the World Wide Web and to the HyperText Markup Language (HTML), a language for structuring the content of web pages. The Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) language is introduced as a way to describe the appearance of web pages. Students also learn JavaScript, a scripting language that enables adding dynamic behavior to web pages.

The digital representation of information is a common thread that runs through the course. We show how numbers, text, colors, images, sound, and video can all be represented in terms of bits, the fundamental unit of digital information. We also discuss social, legal, and ethical implications of the digital revolution. Topics include critical evaluation of web sources, copyright laws, digital rights management, privacy, and security.

The course culminates in a project in which pairs of students design, implement, test, and present websites for a real client

Computer Science 110 assumes no previous computer experience. The course is typically taught using the Macintosh computers in E101 and SCI257 in the Science Center. However, PC users need not be concerned. While the software applications will be necessarily oriented toward the machines we will be using during lecture and discussion sections, similar applications exist for the PC world.

Students with significant computer experience, or students who believe they may wish to take additional courses in computer science should consider enrolling in CS111: Computer Programmming & Problem Solving, instead of CS110. Students who are interested in majoring in the Sciences may want to explore CS112: Computation for the Sciences. If you are not sure which course is right for you, please consult Choosing an Introductory CS course or talk to one of the course instructors.


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