Course Description: Techniques for attacking and solving challenging problems from a variety of fields. Solutions will be implemented with a programming language such as Java or C++. Each student will be given the opportunity to participate in Local, Regional and International programming competitions.

Prerequisites:CSC-1720 or permission.

Course Materials:

1. Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest and Clifford Stein, Introduction to Algorithms, Second Edition, McGraw-Hill Book Company. (or the current book for CSC-1710/1720)
2. Time and patience.
3. Account on the Linus (A PC running Linux). Linus can be accessed through Internet by using the address linus.highpoint.edu. This is where I develop and test all Java programs currently. The Java in this course will be generic and programs written in this class should work on any machine with any Java compiler.

Course Objectives: After successfully completing this course, you will be able to:

1. design and evaluate advanced abstract data types and data structures.
2. analyze and compare the performance of algorithms (Time vs Space).
3. describe, analyze, and implement algorithm design methods.
4. apply formal problem solving techniques to write logically correct, efficient, and easily modifiable programs using a procedural programming language.
5. demonstrate logical thinking, problem solving, and structured programming skills while presenting solved problems to the class.

Programming Assignments: During the semester, at least 20 problems will be distributed. Each student must attempt to solve or solve at least 8 problems. If you do not get a complete solution, then there must be substantial evidence that you have worked on the problem and have a general understanding of how to complete the program solution.

Course Policy:

1. Attendance: Attendance will be taken during practice sessions. You are expected to be present at every session. If absent from a session, you need to report to me the time and progress you are making on the problem set.
2. Grades: Your final grade will be determined as follows:

   Component	8-16 program solutions	ACM Contest Participation	Total
   Weight	50%	50%	100%

   Range	93-100	90-93	87-90	83-87	80-83	77-80	73-77	70-73	67-70	63-67	60-63	0-60
   Grade	A	A-	B+	B	B-	C+	C	C-

   You must score at least the minimum of a category to be given the associated grade, i.e. an average of 80 is a B- not a C+.

   8+ Programming assignments - You will receive 0-3 points for each problem. Graded as follows:

   • 3 pts - If your solution is correct(or almost correct).
   • 2 pts - If it's close but cannot be considered correct, maybe overlooked special cases.
   • 1 pt - worked on it but just did not get anywhere with a solution.
   • 0 pts - no attempt.

   Solved	above 20 pts	above 17 pts	above 14 pts	above 11 pts	above 8 pts	above 5 pts	other
   Program Grade	A	A-	B+	B	B-	C+	C

3. Face covering: Wearing a face mask reduces the risk of COVID-19 transmission and is a step we can all take to care for the members of our HPU family. Therefore, in compliance with applicable federal, state or local orders, at HPU, students are required to wear face masks when indoors in all classrooms, labs, studios, and other public spaces (such as hallways, building entrances, public restrooms, in HPU transportation such as shuttles, and other common spaces). There is not enough evidence to support the effectiveness of masks with one-way valves or vents, gators, or face shields for controlling transmission of the virus, and thus these face coverings are not an acceptable substitute for cloth face masks. Exceptions may be made for the use of face shields with an approved medical excuse or when giving a public presentation in front of a group, as long as there is greater than six feet of distance between speaker and audience.
4. Students with Disabilities: High Point University is committed to ensuring all students have equal access to all services and benefits at High Point University. If you are a student with a disability and require academic accommodations due to a diagnosed disability, you must register with the Office of Accessibility Resources and Services (OARS) and submit the appropriate documentation. Requests for accommodations should be made at the beginning of a course. Accommodations are not retroactive. Contact us at oars@highpoint.edu or by telephone at 336-841-9026, for additional information. The Office of Accessibility Resource and Services is located on the 4th Floor of Smith. Library.

Course Topics:

• Review of C++/Java/etc.
• Performance Analysis and Measurement (Big "oh" method and practical complexities)
• design methods - Greedy, Divide & Conquer, Dynamic Programming, Backtrtacking, Branch & Bound.
• Using contests sites to practice in preparation for competitions. These sites will provide problems that will be solved during the semester.
• Participation in ACM competitions and smaller localized competitions.