Foundations of Computer Science (CS3310)

Summary

• Prerequisite: MTH1112 (Pre-Calculus Algebra) with at least C
• Duration: 15 weeks (45 hours)
• Credit points: 3 credits
• Level: Undergraduate
• Teaching language: English
• Location: HUST and Troy University (Hanoi site)
• URL: URL to Troy University’s dedicated page, URL to HUST’s dedicated page

Purpose

This course aims to introduce the fundamental concepts of computer science, preparing students for more in-depth studies in advanced courses. They cover topics such as programming in machine and assembly language, organization and operation of computer systems, logic circuits, design of finite state diagrams, and the algebraic foundations of circuit design.

Topics covered: algorithms and pseudocode, programming, binary systems, Boolean algebra and logic circuits, computer system architecture, with practical implementation through projects and in-class exercises.

Lectures

1. Introduction (Slides)
2. Algorithmic Foundations of Computer Science - Representing Algorithms (Slides)
3. Algorithmic Foundations of Computer Science - Algorithm Efficiency (Slides)
4. System Software and Virtual Machines (Slides)
5. High-Level Language Programming (Slides)
6. Software Engineering and Software Development (Slides)
7. The Building Blocks: Binary Numbers, Boolean Logic, and Gates (Slides)
8. Computer Systems Organization (Slides)

Textbooks

Schneider, G. M., Gersting, J. L., & Baase, S. (1999). Invitation to Computer Science. PWS Pub..