PSU’s approach for teaching Introductory Computer Science focuses on building a foundation of knowledge that allows students to select the appropriate methodology, syntax, and data structures depending on the situation. Students learn about writing efficient programs and how to make decisions about which programming methodology or data structure to select. Students use procedural abstraction, modular abstraction, data abstraction and object oriented programming in C++ in the CS162, CS163, and CS202 courses.

From the 16x courses students become equipped to deal with the management of external data files, external source files, arrays, strings, classes, pointers, and dynamic memory management. Students are taught about efficiency tradeoffs and have experienced the relationship between pointers, arrays, and pointer arithmetic.

Classes this summer are using a hybrid format where class lectures are captured using a webcam and document camera and streamed on the web (typically within 48 hours of the class lecture taking place). In addition, online activities are replacing some homework in an attempt to enhance student learning as we cover each topic.Students have the opportunity to view the class through the internet rather than attending in person. Exams can be taken at a proctoring center or on campus at PSU. Exams taken off campus must be previously arranged with the Instructor.

The lectures will appear for Summer term after the first week of class (by the end of June). The links will be provided on the "lecture materials" tab for your class and through the Desire to Learn (D2L) website. Make sure to either attend class or watch the class online every week. Getting behind is the biggest risk of taking these courses online!