Course description

Course lay-out

This course relies on the matter that has been discussed in the third course. The lectures embraces two subjects: (I) datastructures and algorithms and (II) mathematics. The first subject will elaborate upon common programming concepts; especially common datastructures like queues, staks, trees and graphs. Fundamental algorithms like sorting and searching will also be discussed. A Java practical put theory into practice; assignments have to be handed in. The second subject will elaborate upon linear algebra (vector and matrix calculations), solving differential equation systems, complex numbers and graph theory. These subjects will be incorporated with the theory and practical of the first subject.

 

Educational goals

• Knowledge and comprehension of the most important data types and data structures and the application of these in computer algorithms
• Elementary skills in the area of linear algebra and the analysis of mathematical functions
• Knowledge of and insight into the most important concepts of the graph theory

 

Involved departments

• Clinical Informatics
• Informatics
• KdV Institute of Mathematics

 

Evaluation

Evaluation of the course and assignments

This course ran parallel with the sixth course. The fifth (this) course is an informatics course, the sixth course is an medics course. Java skills and mathematics were refreshed and I had to get used to Java agian. This course gave an introduction of informatics and exceeds the knowledge and insights of the third course. Five assignments had to be done in groups of two. For each assignment a part of the programmes were already implemented, we had to fill in the gaps.

 

Before the deadline the entire programme had to be filed in and it had to be accompanied by a report. This report was a justification of the implementation done by the group (and reasons are given why it was implemented this particular way). Most of the time it was about subjects that were treated in the lectures. Each data type and data structures had its advantages and disadvantages. In the report the data types and data structures that were implemented were justified.

 

The second (major) topic was mathematics. I like the subjects matrix calculation and differential equation solving. Although I had some problems with public transport (ProRail) and I was an hour late for the examination, I passed the examination the first time.

 

I have learned a lot in this course, programming was more extensive and more fun. The collaboration went well, however writing the report was annoying (it was extra work). However I do understand why it was necessary to write a report; practical assistants could determine whether or not you understand the matter and to catch a copy-cat.