CSci 3501 Algorithms and Computability

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Course description: Models of computation (deterministic and non-deterministic machines, Turing machines); approaches to the design of algorithms, determining correctness and efficiency of algorithms; complexity classes, NP-completeness, approximation algorithms. Prerequisites: CSci 2101, CSci 1302.
5 credits.

Course learning objectives:

Class meetings

Lecture: M,W,F 11:45am-12:50pm Sci 2185
Lab: Th noon-1:50pm Sci 2610

Instructor

Instructor: Elena Machkasova
Office: Sci 2325, Phone: 6308
Office hours: Mon 2-3:30pm, , Tue 11am-noon, Wedn. 2-3pm, Fri 2-3:30pm, or arrange by e-mail.
elenam at morris.umn.edu

Textbooks and other resources

In addition to the books I may occasionally assign extra reading material. These materials will be available at the resources page of the course web site, I will also distribute copies in class.

In addition, you must check your UMM e-mail frequently (at least once a day). I may send clarifications for problem sets by e-mail.

Grading

The grade for this course will be based on the following:

Problem sets and labs 45%
In-class quizzes 5%
Midterm I 15%
Midterm II 15%
Final 20%

Minor (up to 5%) adjustments may be made to this grade distribution based on how the course progresses. Such adjustments (if any) will be announced in class.

Grading policies

Basic Grading Scheme: (100-90)% A; (90-80)% B; (80-70)% C; (70-60)% D; below 60% F. Small adjustments may be made for particularly good final exams, class average and other signs of individual effort.

Official Grading Policies:

A achievement that is outstanding relative to the level necessary to meet course requirements.
B achievement that is significantly above the level necessary to meet course requirements.
C achievement that meets the course requirements in every respect.
D achievement that is worthy of credit even though it fails to meet fully the course requirements.
S achievement that is satisfactory, which is equivalent to a C- or better (achievement required for an S is at the discretion of the instructor but may be no lower than a C-).
F (or N) Represents failure (or no credit) and signifies that the work was either (1) completed but at a level of achievement that is not worthy of credit or (2) was not completed and there was no agreement between the instructor and the student that the student would be awarded an I (see also I)
I Incomplete. Assigned at the discretion of the instructor when, due to extraordinary circumstances, e.g., hospitalization, a student is prevented from completing the work of the course on time. Requires a written agreement between instructor and student.

Other class policies

For policy on late and missed work please see the syllabus.

Credits:

One credit is defined as equivalent to an average of three hours of learning effort per week (over a full semester) necessary for an average student to achieve an average grade in the course. For example, a student taking a four credit course that meets for three hours a week should expect to spend an additional nine hours a week on coursework outside the classroom.

Academic dishonesty:

Scholastic dishonesty is defined in the University Student Conduct Code. If in doubt as to how the code is applicable to a specific assignment or other course-related work, please ask.

Academic dishonesty in any portion of the academic work for a course shall be grounds for a penalty, up to and including awarding a grade of F or N for the entire course.

Problem set collaboration policy:

Problem sets are individual work, unless specifically designated as work in groups. For guidelines on work in groups please see the syllabus. Discussion with students other than those in your group (or anyone not in this class) should be limited to general approaches to the problem. All such discussions as well as use of sources other than the textbook and the handouts given in class must be acknowledged in the beginning of the problem solution.

Classroom conduct:

Students are expected to interact with the instructor and other students with respect and courtesy. Students should attend every class session prepared to learn and work. Participation in class is expected, which includes both listening and speaking up. Students are expected to ask questions about the course material as needed, either in class or during the instructor's office hours, or by e-mail.

Do not use cell phones or other loud or otherwise disruptive equipment in class without the instructor's consent. Students whose behavior is disruptive either to the instructor or to other students may be asked to leave. Students whose behavior suggests the need for counseling or other assistance may be referred to counseling services. Students whose behavior violates the University Student Conduct Code will be subject to disciplinary action.

Accommodations for students with disabilities:

The University of Minnesota is committed to providing all students equal access to learning opportunities. Disability Services is the campus office that works with students who have disabilities to provide and/or arrange reasonable accommodations. Students registered with Disability Services who have a letter requesting accommodations, are encouraged to contact the instructor early in the semester. Students who have, or think they may have, a disability (e.g. psychiatric, attentional, learning, vision, hearing, physical, or systemic), are invited to contact Disability Services for a confidential discussion at 320-589-6163 or freyc at morris.umn.edu. Additional information is available at the DS web site at http://www.morris.umn.edu/services/dsoaac/dso.

Sexual harassment policies:

University policy prohibits sexual harassment as defined by the University of Minnesota Regents' policy.

The views and opinions expressed on this page and on the linked course pages are strictly those of the page author. The contents of this page have not been reviewed or approved by the University of Minnesota.