Designed to give the entering computer science major an overview of the field of computer science. Students are introduced to ethical and moral questions in computer science, artificial intelligence, history of computing, Internet resources, uses of software, computer hardware, vocational opportunities, and the future of computer science. Does not meet any General Education requirements. Corequisite of COSC 181 or COSC major or permission of the instructor. (Offered each J-Term.)

Richard Spinello, Morality and Law in Cyberspace, Jones and Bartlett Publishers, 2006. ISBN 0-7637-3783-6

Gene Rohrbaugh, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Computer Science

First year computer science majors and other students interested in exploring computer science.

1. To give students a broad overview of the field of computer science, including artificial intelligence, computer hardware, and ethics.
2. To introduce a Christian perspective on ethical issues related to computer science.
3. To introduce students to the use of software that is not part of the usual computer science curriculum.
4. To familiarize students with the various types of work for the computer professional.
5. To expand the students understanding of computer applications.
6. To help students explore the field of computer science and determine their interest in a career in this area.

1. At least one college computer science course.
2. An elementary understanding of microcomputers.

1. Research at the fringe: artificial intelligence, cybernetics, virtual and augmented realities, data mining and reconstruction, bioinformatics, nanotechnology, robotics and artificial life, gaming, and machine translation.
2. Career paths: future of computing careers, software and hardware careers, CS education at Messiah, Business Information Systems and Computer Engineering, advanced degrees and certifications, internships and the Collaboratory.
3. Faith, ethics and law: digital rights management, robot ethics and the legal status of artifical persons, cyberaddictions, free speech and censorship, intellectual property, privacy and identity theft, cybercrime and cyberterrorism, and ACM code of ethics.
4. Collaborative projects: Greenfoot game programming, website development using Dreamweaver templates, online presence (blogs, chat, second life), and topical discussions.
5. Student presentations: varies by semester, but examples include gaming, open-source software, software development models, Wikis, and social networking.

1. The course must be taught in a lab discussion group setting.
2. Access to the campus network and Internet accounts.
3. Electronic components to construct hardware projects.

1. This is a seminar and project oriented course. The instructors and guest lectures give short presentations with ample opportunities for interaction and discussion.
2. Field trips to observe computer applications and presentations by practicing computer professionals.
3. Students get hands-on experience building hardware, producing and editing videos for group reports.
4. Report writing and oral reports.