Learning to Think In Code

Class Engagement Week 1 Many core ideas for algorithm design and analysis were covered in Module 1, and one major idea that resonated with me in this part was being taught to express algorithms using pseudocode first, and then translating them into the actual program. I think dividing an algorithm into step-by-step logic really helps organize the problem in a more coherent and digestible way, and it makes programming easier later on. The algorithm puzzles, such as the fake coin, traveling salesman and matching pairs puzzles were very enjoyable as well because they challenge my ability to think from multiple angles. Another thing that I thought was really interesting was getting introduced to Sorting, Searching, Graphs and Trees, and what the purpose of different STL data structures are in efficiently organizing data. We also started touching upon algorithm analysis and time complexity. Identifying the basic operation and comparison between the worst-case vs the best-case performances w...

What went well? What would you improve? What was the most impactful part? What challenges did you face?  What advice do you have for future SL students?      Overall, the service learning project at the Kern County Sheriff's Mounted Posse was a valuable experience. The goal of my project was to design and implement a photo upload and storage system that would enable event participants and volunteers to upload photos via a mobile friendly website. Something I feel I was particularly successful in was applying the skills and principles that I have learned through the computer science courses, to solve  a real world problem. Planning, designing, and developing this system had provided me with real world experience of not just developing a system, but also how a system as such can be beneficial to an organization even after the class is done. I feel that I accomplished something useful by providing a solution for the organization.      The most signif...