Course Syllabus

Strategies for Computer Science Success

Do you know how to achieve academic success in a competitive major?  It is often assumed that the key to success is only hard work. However, in the face of academic, social, or emotional stress, students often need additional tools to persevere. CS1960, Strategies for CS Success, is a 1 credit seminar course that will prepare students to face many of the challenges involved in attaining a CS degree. Students will learn many core skills for academic success, including how to enhance resilience, motivation, study habits, and interpersonal skills necessary to thrive in the field of computer science. Students will also learn how to network and prepare for internships and careers in the field.  This course is recommended for first-generation college students, those from diverse backgrounds, and those interested in building a cohort of fellow students to help each other succeed in their educational pursuits.

Instructors: This course will be led by David Johnson, Associate Professor (Lecturer) in Computer Science, and will be joined by faculty and graduate students in Educational Psychology. Please contact Prof. Johnson through dejohnso@cs.utah.edu from your official @utah.edu email address.

Course Meeting Time: Tuesdays 3:05-3:55 (1 credit course)

Required Materials: No required textbook.

Teaching and Learning Methods: This course will meet online once a week via Zoom but may have in-person options.  Course objectives will be met through lecture, course readings, classroom discussion, in-class activities, and out-of-class assignments.

Course Learning Objectives

LO1: This course will help students discover and connect with the University of Utah by using appropriate campus resources and engaging in opportunities that contribute to their learning within and beyond the classroom.

LO2: This course will help students develop their definition of academic success by identifying and practicing basic academic and professional skills necessary for undergraduate success at the University of Utah and beyond.

LO3: This course will help students exhibit personal growth and development by examining and developing strategies that promote wellbeing, foster relationships with peers/faculty/staff, and increase appreciation for diversity.

LO4: This course will help students prepare for a career in computer science by networking with computer science professionals and learning about internships and different career paths in the field.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the course will:

1. Research and locate University of Utah and Computer Science resources,
2. Demonstrate increased self-awareness,
3. Develop a working knowledge of the University of Utah and other academic tools,
4. Create a resume and have it critiqued,
5. Build meaningful connections with faculty/staff and your fellow Utes.

 

Course Grading

Grading Criteria

Letter Grade  Percentage                                             Assignment Percentages

A         94%-100%                                                                  In-Class Participation  50%
A-        90%-94%                                                                    Attendance                  20%
B+       87%-89%                                                                    Weekly assignments   30%
B         84%-86%                                                                    ______________________
B-        80%-84%                                                                     Total                         100%  
C+       77%-79%       
C         74%-76%                                                                   
C-        70%-74%                                                                                                       
D+       67%-69%       
D         64%-66%       
D-        60%-64%       
E          0%-59%         

Assignments
Assignments will be brief and relevant to the topic we will be discussing in class that week; therefore, assignments are due by 11:59pm Monday, to allow review by the instructor before class. Assignments turned in late will not be graded for that week. Please let me know if you have any problem completing a task prior to due dates and I will work with you.

ACES:  A component of this course will entail taking the Academic and Career Excellence System (ACES).  This is an online assessment tool developed to measure student strengths and weaknesses in 12 areas (e.g., motivation, decision-making, personal responsibility, time management, critical thinking, goal setting, etc.). We will use this assessment to help guide our focus in different content areas throughout the semester.

Attendance
Students are expected to attend and actively participate in class each week. Attendance is required and will be recorded on Canvas. If you must miss class, please notify the instructor as only excused absences will allow for making up missed points. It is the student’s responsibility to make up for missed material. In the case of an extended absence due to an emergency or special circumstance, please communicate with your instructor to discuss options.

Classroom Etiquette/ In-Class Participation
The success of this course is heavily based on your participation. You will receive participation points each week. We will begin each class with a personal check in. The instructor and the students will work together to create an open and a collaborative environment where students feel comfortable to express their thoughts and feelings. Disrespectful and disruptive behavior will result in being asked to leave and revocation of attendance and participation points for the day.

Use of electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, laptops, tablets, smart watches) is not permitted in this class without instructor consent.

Zoom Etiquette
When the class meets online, please follow these guidelines:

1. Join the Zoom call a few minutes early. You are welcome to connect, place yourself on mute, and walk away until the official class time.
2. Please use the video feature so we can all feel more engaged.
3. Find a quiet space without interruptions or background noise.
4. Mute your microphone when not talking.
5. Try to avoid talking over others.
6. Be aware that you are on camera.
7. As this is a class, please avoid doing other tasks such as checking e-mails, sending texts, shopping online, etc.

University Policies

 

1. The Americans with Disabilities Act. The University of Utah seeks to provide equal access to its programs, services, and activities for people with disabilities. If you will need accommodations in this class, reasonable prior notice needs to be given to the Center for Disability Services, 162 Olpin Union Building, (801) 581-5020. CDS will work with you and the instructor to make arrangements for accommodations. All written information in this course can be made available in an alternative format with prior notification to the Center for Disability Services.
   
   
2. University Safety Statement. The University of Utah values the safety of all campus community members. To report suspicious activity or to request a courtesy escort, call campus police at 801-585-COPS (801-585-2677). You will receive important emergency alerts and safety messages regarding campus safety via text message. For more information regarding safety and to view available training resources, including helpful videos, visit safeu.utah.edu.

 

3. Addressing Sexual Misconduct. Title IX makes it clear that violence and harassment based on sex and gender (which Includes sexual orientation and gender identity/expression) is a civil rights offense subject to the same kinds of accountability and the same kinds of support applied to offenses against other protected categories such as race, national origin, color, religion, age, status as a person with a disability, veteran’s status or genetic information.  If you or someone you know has been harassed or assaulted, you are encouraged to report it to the Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action, 135 Park Building, 801-581-8365, or the Office of the Dean of Students, 270 Union Building, 801-581-7066.  For support and confidential consultation, contact the Center for Student Wellness, 426 SSB, 801-581-7776.  To report to the police, contact the Department of Public Safety, 801-585-2677(COPS).

 

4. COVID-19 Campus Guidelines. Students are required to self-report if they test positive for COVID-19. To report, please contact:

COVID-19 Central @ The U
 801-213-2874
 coronavirus.utah.edu

To reduce the spread of COVID-19 on campus, face coverings are required in all in-person classes for both students and faculty.

Based on CDC guidelines, the University requires everyone to wear face coverings in shared public spaces on campus. If you repeatedly fail to wear a face covering in class, you may be referred to the Dean of Students for a possible violation of the Student Code.

Some courses may require attendance due to hands-on coursework. Please read the syllabus and attendance requirements for the course thoroughly.

Some students may qualify for accommodations & exemptions from these guidelines through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Accommodations should be obtained prior to the first day of class.

If you believe you meet these criteria, contact:

Center for Disability & Access

 801-581-5020

disability.utah.edu

162 Union Building

200 S. Central Campus Dr.

Salt Lake City, UT 84112

 

5. Undocumented Student Support Statement. Immigration is a complex phenomenon with broad impact—those who are directly affected by it, as well as those who are indirectly affected by their relationships with family members, friends, and loved ones. If your immigration status presents obstacles to engaging in specific activities or fulfilling specific course criteria, confidential arrangements may be requested from the Dream Center. Arrangements with the Dream Center will not jeopardize your student status, your financial aid, or any other part of your residence. The Dream Center offers a wide range of resources to support undocumented students (with and without DACA) as well as students from mixed-status families. To learn more, please contact the Dream Center at 801.213.3697 or visit dream.utah.edu.

 

6. Drop/Withdrawal Policies. Students may drop a course within the first two weeks of a given semester without any penalties. Students may officially withdraw (W) from a class or all classes after the drop deadline through the midpoint of a course. A “W” grade is recorded on the transcript and appropriate tuition/fees are assessed. The grade “W” is not used in calculating the student’s GPA. For deadlines to withdraw from full-term, first, and second session classes, see the U's Academic Calendar.

 

7. Students are expected to submit original work and adhere to the academic policies outlined in the University of Utah Student Conduct Code.  Any acts of academic dishonesty, cheating or plagiarism, will be reported. 

 

According to Webster, to plagiarize is “to steal or pass off the ideas or words of another as one’s own…to use created productions without crediting the source…to commit literary theft…to present as new and original an idea or product derived from an existing source.  Students caught cheating or plagiarizing will receive zero points for that quiz, exam or assignment.  This issue is taken seriously and subject to disciplinary action, including expulsion from the college.

8. Wellness Statement. Your personal health and wellness are essential to your success as a student. Personal concerns like stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, or cross-cultural differences can interfere with a student’s ability to succeed and thrive in this course and at the University of Utah.

Please feel welcome to reach out to your instructor or TA's to handle issues regarding your coursework. For helpful resources to manage your personal wellness and counseling options, contact:

Center for Student Wellness
801-581-7776
wellness.utah.edu
2100 Eccles Student Life Center
     1836 Student Life Way
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Women's Resource Center
801-581-8030
womenscenter.utah.edu
411 Union Building
     200 S. Central Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

9. Diverse Student Support. Your success at the University of Utah is important to all of us here! If you feel like you need extra support in academics, overcoming personal difficulties, or finding community, the U is here for you.

Student Support Services (TRIO)

TRIO federal programs are targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities.

Student Support Services (SSS) is a TRIO program for current or incoming undergraduate university students who are seeking their first bachelor's degree and need academic assistance and other services to be successful at the University of Utah.

For more information about what support they provide, a list of ongoing events, and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

Student Support Services (TRIO)
801-581-7188
trio.utah.edu
 Room 2075 
     1901 E. S. Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

American Indian Students

The AIRC works to increase American Indian student visibility and success on campus by advocating for and providing student centered programs and tools to enhance academic success, cultural events to promote personal well-being, and a supportive “home-away-from-home” space for students to grow and develop leadership skills. 

For more information about what support they provide, a list of ongoing events, and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

American Indian Resource Center
 801-581-7019
diversity.utah.edu/centers/airc
Fort Douglas Building 622
     1925 De Trobriand St.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84113

Black Students

Using a pan-African lens, the Black Cultural Center seeks to counteract persistent campus-wide and global anti-blackness. The Black Cultural Center works to holistically enrich, educate, and advocate for students, faculty, and staff through Black centered programming, culturally affirming educational initiatives, and retention strategies.

For more information about what support they provide, a list of ongoing events, and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

Black Cultural Center
801-213-1441
diversity.utah.edu/centers/bcc
Fort Douglas Building 603
     95 Fort Douglas Blvd.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84113

Students with Children

Our mission is to support and coordinate information, program development and services that enhance family resources as well as the availability, affordability and quality of child care for University students, faculty and staff.

For more information about what support they provide, a list of ongoing events, and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

Center for Childcare & Family Resources
801-585-5897
childcare.utah.edu
408 Union Building
    200 S. Central Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Students with Disabilities

The Center for Disability Services is dedicated to serving students with disabilities by providing the opportunity for success and equal access at the University of Utah. They also strive to create an inclusive, safe, and respectful environment.

For more information about what support they provide and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

Center for Disability Services
801-581-5020
disability.utah.edu
162 Union Building
    200 S. Central Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Students of Ethnic Descent

The Center for Ethnic Student Affairs offers several programs dedicated to the success of students with varied cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Their mission is to create an inclusive, safe campus community that values the experiences of all students.

For more information about what support they provide, a list of ongoing events, and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

Center for Ethnic Student Affairs
801-581-8151
diversity.utah.edu/centers/cesa/
 235 Union Building
    200 S. Central Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

English as a Second/Additional Language (ESL) Students

If you are an English language learner, there are several resources on campus available to help you develop your English writing and language skills. Feel free to contact:

Writing Center
801-587-9122
writingcenter.utah.edu
2701 Marriott Library
     295 S 1500 E
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

English for Academic Success (EAS) Program
 801-581-8047
linguistics.utah.edu/eas-program
 2300 LNCO
     255 S. Central Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

English Language Institute
801-581-4600
continue.utah.edu/eli 
540 Arapeen Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84108

Undocumented Students

Immigration is a complex phenomenon with broad impact—those who are directly affected by it, as well as those who are indirectly affected by their relationships with family members, friends, and loved ones. If your immigration status presents obstacles that prevent you from engaging in specific activities or fulfilling specific course criteria, confidential arrangements may be requested from the Dream Center.

Arrangements with the Dream Center will not jeopardize your student status, your financial aid, or any other part of your residence. The Dream Center offers a wide range of resources to support undocumented students (with and without DACA) as well as students from mixed-status families.

For more information about what support they provide and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

Dream Center
801-213-3697
dream.utah.edu
 1120 Annex (Wing B)
     1901 E. S. Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

LGBTQ+ Students

The LGBTQ+ Resource Center acts in accountability with the campus community by identifying the needs of people with a queer range of [a]gender and [a]sexual experiences and responding with university-wide services.

For more information about what support they provide, a list of ongoing events, and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

LGBTQ+ Resource Center
801-587-7973
lgbt.utah.edu (Links to an external site.)
409 Union Building
    200 S. Central Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Veterans & Military Students

The mission of the Veterans Support Center is to improve and enhance the individual and academic success of veterans, service members, and their family members who attend the university; to help them receive the benefits they earned; and to serve as a liaison between the student veteran community and the university.

For more information about what support they provide, a list of ongoing events, and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

Veterans Support Center
801-587-7722
veteranscenter.utah.edu  (Links to an external site.)
418 Union Building
    200 S. Central Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Women

The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) at the University of Utah serves as the central resource for educational and support services for women. Honoring the complexities of women’s identities, the WRC facilitates choices and changes through programs, counseling, and training grounded in a commitment to advance social justice and equality.

For more information about what support they provide, a list of ongoing events, and links to other resources, view their website or contact:

Women's Resource Center
801-581-8030
womenscenter.utah.edu
411 Union Building
     200 S. Central Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Inclusivity at the U

The Office for Inclusive Excellence is here to engage, support, and advance an environment fostering the values of respect, diversity, equity, inclusivity, and academic excellence for students in our increasingly global campus community. They also handle reports of bias in the classroom as outlined below:

Bias or hate incidents consist of speech, conduct, or some other form of expression or action that is motivated wholly or in part by prejudice or bias whose impact discriminates, demeans, embarrasses, assigns stereotypes, harasses, or excludes individuals because of their race, color, ethnicity, national origin, language, sex, size, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or religion.

For more information about what support they provide and links to other resources, or to report a bias incident, view their website or contact:

Office for Inclusive Excellence
801-581-4600
inclusive-excellence.utah.edu (Links to an external site.)
170 Annex (Wing D)
     1901 E. S. Campus Dr.
     Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Other Student Groups at the U

To learn more about some of the other resource groups available at the U, check out:

getinvolved.utah.edu/

            studentsuccess.utah.edu/resources/student-support

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Note: This syllabus is meant to serve as an outline and guide for our course. Please note that I may modify it with reasonable notice to you. I may also modify the Course Schedule to accommodate the needs of our class. Any changes will be announced in class and posted on Canvas under Announcements.

 

Proposed Course Schedule

Week	Date	Topic	Guest Speaker
1	8/25/20	Introduction to Computer Science	David Johnson
2	9/1/20	Organization & Time Management	K.C. Hill
3	9/8/20	Know my Resources for Success Online Scavenger Hunt   Assigned:  ACES Inventory	Erin Buttars
4	9/15/20	Identify my Strengths & Growth Edges Goal Setting & Personal Success Planning   Due:  ACES Inventory	A.J. Metz
5	9/22/20	Understanding the Expectations in My Field: Computer Science	David Johnson attend Pathways fair on 25th
6	9/29/20	Reading & Note Taking	K.C. Hill
7	10/6/20	Memory, Studying, Test Taking	Erin Buttars
8	10/13/20	Managing Anxiety/Stress Meditation & Mindfulness	K.C. Hill
9	10/20/20	Topic: Industry Guest Lecture	David Johnson
10	10/27/20	Who Am I? How Does this Impact My Success?	K.C. Hill
11	11/3/20	How Others Can Help: Belonging & Mentorship	Erin Buttars
12	11/10/20	Topic: Ethical Issues in Computer Science	David Johnson
13	11/17/20	Intersectionality and STEM – The Role of Race, Gender, and Social Identities	Karen
14	11/24/20	Topic: TBA	Erin Buttars
15	12/1/20	TBA	David Johnson

 

Important Dates

Classes begin                                                                Monday, August 24
Last day to add without a permission code                     Friday, August 28
Last day to add, drop, elect CR/NC, or audit classes        Friday, September 4
Instruction for all classes online                                     September 27- October 11
Last day to withdraw from classes                                  Friday, October 16
Conclusion of in-person instruction                                Wednesday, November 25
Classes end                                                                   Thursday, December 3
Final exam period                                                         December 7 - 11