Class FAQ

This document attempts to gather a variety of questions that have been asked about the course along with some answers to those questions. Feel free to submit more.

What is the class about?

Programming languages, their design, their paradigms, their history. We will also spend a good deal of time exploring particular languages (languages you know in more depth; new languages more superficially).

What kinds of homework assignments are we likely to get?

For the design stuff, you'll get questions that ask you to compare designs, to show you understand designs, perhaps even to design something on your own. When we ground design issues in particular new languages, you'll probably get short programming assignments in those languages. I am also likely to ask you to implement some things we consider.

Is it going to be hard?

It depends on what you find easy and what you find hard. My experience is about half of the class is somewhat mathematically challenged, so that half will find the math part hard.

What if I'm not very smart?

Then work hard and visit me with questions. I'd recommend that you also form a study group.

Do I have to do the readings in advance of each class?

Certainly. You must also submit reflections.

Can you explain your Plus/Check/Minus grading scale?

For assignments and readings, I tend to use a Plus/Check/Minus grading scale. Correct or mostly-correct assignments earn a Check. Assignments that go beyond the norm may earn a Check Plus or a Plus. Assignments with errors tend to earn a Check Minus or a Minus. To convert these to a letter grade, I rely on the four point scale (4.0 is an A, 3.0 is a B, and so on and so forth). A Check is worth 3 points. A Check Plus is typically worth 4.5 points. A Plus (rare) is typically worth 6 points. A Check Minus is worth 2 points. A Minus is worth 1 point. This grading scale acknowledges the rarity of Check Plus and Plus grades by ensuring that students who receive such grades on 1/3 to 1/4 of the assignments are treated as exceptional.