CS 465: Topics in Computer Science Computer History

Syllabus

Spring 1996

Instructor:
Brian L. Stuart

Office:
Math 419
Office Phone:
726-3725
Office Hours:
1:30--2:30 Tuesday and Thursday and 8:00--11:00 Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Text:
A History of Computing Technology by Michael R. Williams.
Objectives:
As with any serious examination of history we want to learn not only what happened when but also how events related to each other. We also want to get a sense of the history of computing in the context of the history of civilation at the time and a sense how computing has affected the culture in which we live. We'll naturally try to look forward to see where we're going from here.

When looking at the history of any scientific or technological field, we must expect to expend significant effort understanding how each development worked. We will look at developments from the perspectives of mathematics, mechanics and electronics. Because most of you have studied no electronics and little physics, we'll attempt to spend a little time reviewing the principles on which the technology is based.

At the end of the semester, the successful student will have a good understanding of how we got from the simple notion of a number to the computing technology of today. That knowledge, thoughtfully considered, should also give the student a good sense of what the future is likely to hold.

Grades:
The grading in the class will be based on three papers and two exams. The papers will be worth 20% each, the midterm, 15% and the final 25%.

All work will be conducted according to Rhodes' Honor Code.



Brian L. Stuart