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Westley Weimer

This class will give you an introduction to the fundamentals of programming languages. Key concepts include how to specify and process valid strings, sentences and program structures.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Assumes learners have existing programming experience, suitable for individuals with some background in programming
Covers the foundations of programming languages, providing a comprehensive introduction to the subject
Instructors, Westley Weimer are recognized for their expertise and contributions to the field of programming languages
Emphasizes the specification and processing of valid strings, sentences, and program structures, addressing core aspects of programming
May not be suitable for complete beginners with no prior programming experience
Requires dedication and effort, as it is a structured course with deadlines and timed events

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Reviews summary

Tough but rewarding programming course

This challenging course explores differences among programming languages. Although it doesn't serve as an introductory course, it is highly recommended for programmers with at least 2 years of experience. Despite some poorly explained concepts, students value Professor Grossman's expertise and the rigorous assignments that enhance their understanding of programming languages.
Rigorous assignments enhance learning.
"The assignments can be a bit hard but not impossible as long as you read them carefully..."
Valuable instruction from an experienced professor.
"It is not an introduction to programming course, you do need to understand basic programming, especially recursion."
"a great course taught by a great professor."
"Definitely recommend this course and any other course Prof Grossman would teach in the future."
Some concepts are not explained clearly.
"many concepts are poorly explained."
Course requires previous programming knowledge.
"This course assumes previous programming experience, comparable to what is covered by the Udacity CS101 course."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Programming Languages with these activities:
Read 'Head First Java'
Gain a comprehensive understanding of Java programming concepts through this popular book.
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly
  • Complete the practice exercises
Review Variables and Data Types
Strengthen your foundation by reviewing the basics of variables and data types.
Browse courses on Programming Fundamentals
Show steps
  • Go over your notes or textbooks
  • Practice writing code examples
Participate in a Study Group
Foster collaboration and reinforce understanding through discussions with peers.
Show steps
  • Find a group of classmates or peers with similar interests
  • Establish regular meeting times and discussion topics
  • Actively participate in discussions, share perspectives, and ask questions
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Write Test Cases
Enforce the execution of valid scenarios by practicing writing test cases.
Browse courses on Programming Fundamentals
Show steps
  • Identify all possible inputs and outputs
  • Craft test cases for each input-output pair
Build a Simple Calculator
Solidify your understanding of programming concepts by building an interactive calculator.
Browse courses on Python Programming
Show steps
  • Choose a programming language and IDE
  • Implement basic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
  • Handle user input and display results
Write a Summary of Key Concepts
Enhance your comprehension by summarizing the fundamental concepts of programming languages.
Show steps
  • Review course materials and identify key concepts
  • Organize the concepts into a logical structure
  • Write a clear and concise summary
Develop a Syntax Highlighter
Enhance your command of programming languages by building a tool that highlights code syntax.
Browse courses on Python Programming
Show steps
  • Research and understand syntax highlighting techniques
  • Implement a syntax highlighter using a chosen programming language
  • Test and refine the highlighter's accuracy and performance
Build a Text-Based Adventure Game
Apply your knowledge to create a text-based game, reinforcing programming constructs and problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on Python Programming
Show steps
  • Design the game's story, characters, and environment
  • Implement the game mechanics and player interactions
  • Test and refine the game

Career center

Learners who complete Programming Languages will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Mobile Developer
Mobile Developers design and develop mobile applications. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Mobile Developer.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers build, maintain, and improve software systems. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Software Engineer.
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites and web applications. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. These are essential skills for any Web Developer.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make predictions. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Data Scientist.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers build and maintain machine learning models. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is essential for any Machine Learning Engineer.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Systems Analyst.
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write, test, and maintain computer programs. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Computer Programmer.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Database Administrator.
IT Specialist
IT Specialists provide technical support to users and maintain computer systems. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any IT Specialist.
Network Administrator
Network Administrators design, implement, and maintain computer networks. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Network Administrator.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer Support Specialists provide technical support to users and maintain computer systems. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course may help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Computer Support Specialist.
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Managers plan, implement, and manage information technology systems. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course may help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Information Technology Manager.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business needs and develop solutions. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course may help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Business Analyst.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course may help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Project Manager.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation. Programming Languages introduces the fundamentals of programming languages. This course may help you develop the skills you need to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. This is a valuable skill for any Technical Writer.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Programming Languages.
Provides a comprehensive overview of programming language fundamentals, including syntax, semantics, and language design.
This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to programming language concepts and paradigms, including imperative, functional, and object-oriented programming.
Covers practical aspects of programming language design and implementation, including memory management, concurrency, and security.
Provides a concise overview of programming language design, including language syntax, semantics, and implementation.
Provides a formal foundation for understanding programming languages, including type systems, lambda calculus, and object-oriented programming.
Provides a modern and practical approach to compiler design and implementation using Java.
Provides a detailed guide to using Lex and Yacc, two widely used tools for lexical analysis and parsing.
Introduces the concept of domain-specific languages (DSLs) and provides practical guidance on designing and implementing them.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Prolog, a logic programming language that is particularly useful for artificial intelligence applications.
Provides a practical introduction to functional programming using Scala, a modern and expressive programming language.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to object-oriented programming using C++, a widely used programming language in industry.
This classic book provides a gentle introduction to programming using Scheme, a simple and elegant programming language.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Haskell, a pure functional programming language that is widely used in academia and industry.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Prolog, with a focus on its use in artificial intelligence applications.

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