Course 2006-2007 a.y.

Course Objectives

The course introduces the fundamentals of computer programming through the presentation of the C programming language and its object oriented extension, C++. The main characteristics of C, its structure and constructs will be discussed in comparison with other languages' analogues. Several programming paradigms and environments will be presented during the course.
The course is based mainly on programming examples, drawn from applications in the economics and social sciences.
At the end of the course, students are expected to project and develop small, interesting and complete applications that solve problems from other courses. Tools, techniques and everything needed to complete the project will be provided during the lessons and on the elearning platform, which is a fundamental tool for exchanging ideas and solving problems.

Course Content Summary

• Introduction. A brief sketch of computer programming history. Syntax and semantics
• Names, bindings, variable types and scope
• Expressions, assignment. Control structures. Subprograms (functions)
• Abstract data type, encapsulation. Object oriented programming
• Errors and event programming
• Examples in C/C++, Javascript, PHP, Visual Basic

Detailed Description of Assessment Methods

Student evaluation consists of:

• an interim examination (30%)
• the completion of online activities and assignments (40%)
• a final project that requires the realization of a small working application

The final project consists of an application together with its documentation and the discussion with other students. The project can be developed by a single student or by a group of students (no more than 3).

Students are expected to explain and comment the code they submit.

Textbooks

• J. C. MOLLUZZO, C++ for Business Programmers, 2/E, Pace University, Prentice Hall, ISBN: 0-13-046700-6.