Computational Thinking

COURSE OBJECTIVE
After attending this course you will be able:

• to analyze problems,
• to choose a right solution strategy or a combination of solution strategies to solve problems,
• to create algorithms,
• to translate algorithms to a flowchart, -
• to give an oral presentation of a project to peers,
• to reflect critically on your and others' work,
• to write a project report.

COURSE CONTENT
There are various strategies to solve everyday problems. Often a problem can be solved in different ways and there is not always a "best way". However, sometimes one way is more efficient than the other, or you find one approach easier or more pleasant than the other. During the lectures of this course you will be acquainted with different solution strategies (such as modeling, formulation, guess and check) and algorithms (such as search algorithms, sorting algorithms and graph algorithms) to solve problems. You will learn to solve problems by reasoning and by using knowledge from other disciplines. In the practical sessions you will resolve various problems using the different solution strategies and algorithms that have been discussed in the lectures. Since there are many ways to solve a problem, you will also start thinking about developing algorithms yourself. In this course we encourage your problem solving and algorithmic thinking, as well as your creative and innovative skills. At the end of the course you will work together with some other students in a group on a project. You will conclude the project with a short presentation.

TEACHING METHODS
Lectures, practical sessions, project, presentations, self study

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
The final grade is based on the practicum assignments, project assignment, and the exam. The first exam is a digital exam consisting of multiple choice questions. The resit is a paper exam consisting of open questions. The final grade is based on the practicum assignments, project assignment, and the exam. For all these three parts separately, the average grade should be at least a 5.5 to pass the course.

COURSE READING
Syllabus

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
No specific knowledge is required to participate in this course.

RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE
Although no specific knowledge is required to participate in this course a little mathematical understanding may be to your advantage.

REMARKS
You should register in Canvas for a practicum group if you want to participate in the practical sessions