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:

On this page you will find information about:

Class meetings

Lecture: M,W,F 1 - 2:05pm Sci 2185
Lab: Th 2-3:50pm Sci 2610

Instructor

Instructor: Elena Machkasova
Office: Sci 2325, Phone: 6308
Office hours: M,W,F 9:30-10:20am, M,W,F 2:30-3:30pm or arrange by e-mail. My weekly schedule is on google calendar.
elenam at morris.umn.edu

Textbooks and other resources

(available at the University bookstore).

In addition to the book I may occasionally assign extra reading material. Such materials will be available on the resources page. Problem sets will be posted on the assignments page.

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.

Student code of conduct:

The University seeks an environment that promotes academic achievement and integrity, that is protective of free inquiry, and that serves the educational mission of the University. Similarly, the University seeks a community that is free from violence, threats, and intimidation; that is respectful of the rights, opportunities, and welfare of students, faculty, staff, and guests of the University; and that does not threaten the physical or mental health or safety of members of the University community.

As a student at the University you are expected adhere to Board of Regents Policy: Student Conduct Code. To review the Student Conduct Code, please see: University Student Conduct Code.

Academic dishonesty:

Scholastic dishonesty is defined in the University Student Conduct Code.

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.

The Office for Student Conduct and Academic Integrity has compiled a useful list of Frequently Asked Questions pertaining to scholastic dishonesty: http://www.oscai.umn.edu/integrity/student/index.html. If in doubt as to how the code is applicable to a specific assignment or other course-related work, please ask your course instructor.

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.

Equity, Diversity, Equal Opportunity, and Affirmative Action

The University provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs and facilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. For more information, please consult Board of Regents Policy: http://regents.umn.edu/sites/default/files/policies/Equity_Diversity_EO_AA.pdf

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 589-6178 or e-mail dsoacc at morris dot umn dot edu or Room 362 Briggs Library.

Mental Health and Stress Management

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce your ability to participate in daily activities. University of Minnesota services are available to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus via http://www.morris.umn.edu/academicsuccess/disability/.

Sexual harassment policies:

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