CS50 Course Overview

Introduction

• Instructor: David Malan
• Course: CS50 - Harvard University's introduction to computer science and programming
• Goal: For beginners in coding

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week 0: Scratch Programming

• Basics of computer science and programming using Scratch
• Topics Covered:
  • Functions
  • Loops
  • Conditionals
  • Variables
• Lab/Problem Set: Create a game in Scratch (e.g., dodge space debris)
• Focus on getting used to syntax and using VS Code IDE

Week 1: Introduction to Arrays

• Covered:
  • Debugging techniques
• Lab/Problem Set: Challenging but manageable

Weeks 2-5: Algorithms and Memory Management

• Week 2: Introduction to algorithms, specifically sorting algorithms
• Weeks 3-5: Considered very difficult;
  • Key Topics:
    • Memory management in C
    • Data structures: Queues, stacks, linked lists, trees, binary search trees, hash tables, tries
• Problem Set: Implement spellcheck using a hash table

Transition to Python

• New language introduced (Python)
• Focus on rewriting previous assignments in Python
• Main difference: No need for manual memory management

Week 6: SQL and Databases

• Content: SQL basics, solving a mystery with a SQL database
• Enjoyable Lab/Problem Set: Felt engaging and game-like

Week 7: Web Development

• Focus: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
• Emphasis on creating websites, transitioning to dynamic web pages using Flask
• Lab/Problem Set: Create a personal homepage

Week 8: Final Project

• Freedom to apply course knowledge
• Chose to create a portfolio website

Course Challenges

• Time Commitment: Extensive (2-hour lectures, labs, problem sets across 11 weeks)
• Difficulty: Problem sets can be challenging but rewarding

Conclusion

• The course offers a solid foundation in coding and computer science
• Encouragement to take the course for those interested
• Personal journey from novice to knowledgeable in coding

Final Thoughts

• Emphasizes patience and determination as keys to success in the course
• Recommendation: "Just do it!" - Take the course!