Course Overview
This course introduces students to problem-solving and algorithm development using a modern programming language. Students should have basic computer skills.
Prerequisite: ET 111B or MATH 116 or above (except MATH 122 and MATH 123) with a grade of C or higher; or Instructor approval.
Special Note 1: This course includes LAB hours completed during class time.
Special Note 2: We will use the Python programming language to demonstrate a high-level programming language.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course the student will be able to:
- Describe the steps required to perform calculations and complete tasks. (Math Component)
- Translate algorithms into computer programs.
- Create programs that process user input and produce output.
- Code programs that use appropriate loops and decision structures.
- Code programs that use array processing.
- Use generally accepted principles of good programming style and documentation.
Course & Instructor Information
Textbooks & Software
Required Textbook
Prelude to Programming – Concepts and Design, 6th Edition. Venit & Drake, Pearson. ISBN: 9780133741636.
The 5th edition is acceptable. If you use it, notify the instructor for supplemental notes on 6th-edition exercises. A copy is on reserve at the West Charleston Library.
Recommended Reference
Starting Out with Python, Tony Gaddis, 4th Edition, Pearson. ISBN: 9780134444321. (3rd edition also acceptable.) On reserve at the North Las Vegas Library.
Python Resource
We will use a free resource from skillsforall.com. Access instructions will be provided in Canvas.
Software & Hardware
- OS: Windows or Mac. Canvas runs on most modern browsers (IE, Firefox, Safari, etc.) and on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android.
- Python: Available for both Mac and Windows. Installation details provided in Canvas.
- Raptor: Available on Windows and Mac; Windows is the preferred environment. A virtual machine is provided for Mac users.
- Lockdown Browser: Required for quizzes and exams. A webcam is required (built-in or external). Chromebooks are not compatible.
If you do not have access to a computer with a webcam, contact the instructor as soon as possible.
Grade Determination
Letter Grade Scale
Policies
Late Work
Follow due dates in Canvas. A 10% deduction per day applies to late submissions. No work accepted after the availability date or the last day of the semester. Contact the instructor immediately if an emergency arises.
Academic Integrity
Use of AI tools, copying from other sources, or close collaboration on individual work is prohibited. First offense: grade of 0 until reviewed with the instructor. Second offense: referral to the academic integrity violation committee. Do not pay anyone to complete your work or consult answer-providing websites.
Attendance
College assumes maturity and self-discipline. If you need the instructor to sign attendance documents, you must contact the instructor after each class you attend. Class participation is strongly encouraged.
Withdrawal
Instructors cannot withdraw students. Use the CSN Calendar for official dates. Discuss decisions with an academic counselor; withdrawals may affect financial aid. To receive a W, you must officially withdraw yourself.
Internet Access
Internet access is the student's responsibility. Excuses such as "my computer isn't working" are not accepted. Use CSN open computer labs as a backup.
Recording Class
Recordings are not allowed without the instructor's explicit permission.
Important Dates (16-Week Session)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| First day of instruction | |
| Last day for 100% refund | |
| Last day for 50% refund | |
| Last day to drop WITHOUT a grade of W | |
| Last day to change from Credit to Audit | |
| Last day to drop WITH a grade of W | |
| Last day of instruction | |
| Grades due from instructors |
Full schedule: csn.edu/calendar-catalog-schedule
Tentative Course Schedule
Subject to change. All due dates are listed in Canvas.
| Week | Topics | Lab Due | Assignments & Exams |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Syllabus & Intro; Canvas overview; Ch 0 – Introduction; Ch 1 – Intro to Programming | — | Syllabus Quiz, Discussion Post |
| 2 | Install Raptor; Ch 3 – Developing a Program | Lab 1, | Assignment 1 (Ch 0, 1) |
| 3 | Ch 4 – Selection Structures: Making Decisions | Lab 2, | Assignment 2 (Ch 3) |
| 4 | Ch 5 – Repetition Structures: Looping | Lab 3, | Assignment 3 (Ch 4) |
| 5 | Ch 6 – More about Loops and Decisions | Lab 4, | Assignment 4 (Ch 5) |
| 6 | Ch 7 – Arrays | Lab 5, | Assignment 5 (Ch 6) |
| 7 | Review | Lab 6, | Assignment 6 (Ch 7) |
| 8 | MIDTERM EXAM | — | Midterm (Ch 0, 1, 3–7) |
| 9 | Python: Intro & Computer Programming; Data Types, Variables, I/O; Making Decisions | Lab 7, | Assignment 7 – Python (data types, variables, I/O) |
| 10 | Python: Loops | Lab 8, | Assignment 8 – Python (decisions) |
| 11 | Python: Lists | Lab 9, | Assignment 9 – Python (loops) |
| 12 | Python: Sorting & Operations on Lists | Lab 10, | Assignment 10 – Python (lists) |
| 13 | Python: Functions | Lab 11, | Assignment 11 – Python (functions) |
| 14 | Python: Returning Results, Scopes, Multi-parameter Functions | — | Assignment 12 – Data Representation & Python Review Quiz |
| 15 | Ch 2 – Review | — | — |
| 16 | FINAL EXAM – Comprehensive | — | Final Exam (all material after midterm) |
Responsibilities
Instructor's Responsibilities
- Reply to emails in a timely manner (phone calls may take longer).
- Make every effort to resolve any issues.
- Return feedback and grades within one week of the due date.
Student's Responsibilities
- Stay active in classroom discussions and activities; report discrepancies promptly.
- Monitor deadlines for projects and exams.
- Do your best and ask for help when needed.
- Review instructor feedback and address questions or concerns promptly.
Policy Statements
ADA / Disability Resource Center (DRC)
CSN is committed to equal access. Students with documented disabilities should register via the AIM DRC tile in GoCSN. Contact DRC at (702) 651-5644 or visit csn.edu/disability-resource-center.
Student Rights & Responsibilities
Policies covering student conduct, academic integrity, and more are found in the CSN Catalog & Student Handbook and the CSN Policies page.
Pregnant Students
CSN prohibits discrimination based on sex, including pregnancy-related conditions. Contact Title IX Coordinator Dr. Armen Asherian at titleixcoordinator@csn.edu or (702) 651-7481, or the DRC for accommodation.
Sex-Based Harassment & Discrimination
Report incidents to Title IX Coordinator Dr. Armen Asherian at titleixcoordinator@csn.edu or (702) 651-7481, or to University Police at (702) 895-3669.
Safety
Familiarize yourself with the nearest exit. Do not use elevators during fire drills. Take all personal belongings when evacuating. Return only after all-clear is given.
Immigrant / UndocuAlly Support
If your immigration status presents obstacles, contact the Immigrant and UndocuAlly Committee: news.csn.edu.
Student Resources
CSN Student Email
All college communications go to your CSN student email. Check it daily at go.csn.edu. Validated accounts receive Microsoft Office 365 for up to five devices and 1 TB of OneDrive storage.
Academic Advising
Charleston: (702) 651-5670 | North Las Vegas: (702) 651-4049 | Henderson: (702) 651-3165. More info: csn.edu/advising.
Centers for Academic Success (CAS)
Free drop-in tutoring for most general-education and historically challenging courses. Open Mon–Thu 9 AM–6 PM and Fri–Sun 11 AM–4 PM. Visit csn.edu/centers-academic-success or call: Charleston 702-651-5732 · NLV 702-651-4232 · Henderson 702-651-3125.
Brainfuse
Free 24/7 online tutoring, writing services, and homework help. Access through Canvas. Call (702) 651-5619 for info.
TutorChat
Free live online chat at csncentersacademicsuccess.libanswers.com or via your Canvas navigation menu.
Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS)
Free, confidential short-term counseling. Call: West Charleston (702) 651-5518 · NLV (702) 651-4099 · Henderson (702) 651-3099. More info: csn.edu/mentalhealth360.
Library Services
Librarians available for one-on-one research help online or on campus. library.csn.edu. Safari Tech Books available through the library at libguides.csn.edu/safari (log in with Canvas credentials).
Canvas & Technology Help Desk
Local: (702) 651-4357 | Toll-free: 1-800-630-7563 (24/7). Canvas Student Guide: guides.instructure.com.
Computer Labs
CSN provides computer access at many physical locations. Hours and locations: csn.edu/computerlabs.
Printing @ CSN (Print Wise)
Each student receives a $10 credit per semester (200 B&W pages at 5¢ each, or 40 color pages at 25¢ each). Details: csn.edu/printwise.
Course Contract
This syllabus serves as a course contract for the duration of the semester. By continuing in this course, students agree to the terms set forth herein. Information other than grading, late assignments, makeup work, and attendance policies may be subject to change without advance notice, as deemed appropriate by the instructor. The instructor will post any changes in the online forum.