About the Course/Instructor

CSC 211 - Computer Organization and Architecture - Weinman

1  About the Course

Q
In the past, I ve used Stack Overflow and similar websites for information while working on assignments. Could you clarify what level of specificity is allowed when looking for help online?
A
Per the syllabus:
That means (more or less) you shouldn't copy solutions from online, but if you didn't understand the transistor reading you're more than welcome to find other sources discussing them.
Q
For someone who enjoys coding, but is unsure about his interest in the actual construction of circuits and the inner workings of computers, how will I stack up against the students who have a background in this field? Should I be worried?
A
Nah. We're all in this together, and my best advice is that all good programmers understand what is happening at the level of abstraction beneath where they are programming.
Q
I think I recall you saying in class that assignments are due at 10:30, but the syllabus says 11:30. For clarification, which is correct?
A
If I did say that, it probably won't be the last discrepancy you'll encounter. Let's go with 11:30.
Q
How much time should I expect to spend on the weekly assignments?
A
It will vary. Some will be holdovers from lab, but my hope is 1-2 hours, on average.
Q
Is tutoring available for the class?
A
No; for better or worse I'm your primary resource other than your peers.
Q
What language will we be using in this class?
A
MIPS, C, and logic gates.
Q
I am curious about how much the workload will be from the course.
A
Me too.
Q
The David Kramer cited under section 5.5 of the Syllabus is not David Kraemer, the student, correct?
A
I'm assuming not, but as was pointed out in class, I've never seen them in the same place simultaneously.
Q
In section 5.1 (The Final Notes part), you say, After carefully reading the material, mentally review and try making a few notes to yourself... Is this supposed to mean that we need to physically write down our notes? Is mentally taking notes enough or do we need a physical reading journal?
A
There's no formal journal requirement, but you're more likely to remember what to ask about in class if you actually write things down (you'll also perhaps answer your own question, as writing is a form of thinking).
Q
The other question is: the significant bits assignment page (in the Schedule section) tells us to arrive to class 10-15 minutes early in order to set up. Because I have another class until 10:50, this is impossible for me. Is this condition necessary to fully complete the significant bits assignment? If so, what should I do to accommodate this?
A
That's a good question (I've always done this at 8 AM). No, I don't think it's an impediment; but you will want to be ready to go at 11 sharp. You could consider setting up in the 9 AM hour (no other class is there) and locking the workstation screen.

2  About Me

Q
I am debating right now whether I should go to grad school or get a job. I always find it interesting to learn more about why people choose one over the other. Why did you choose to become a teacher over working in the industry?
A
I love that as an academic I have the freedom to pursue the questions that matter and are interesting to me. I also am blessed to interact with the wonderful and creative people that you all are in the classroom. It all means I never get to stop learning.
Q
What things do you like to do outside of teaching?
A
Many things revolving around food: gardening, preserving, barbecuing (yes, with fire at 225), and occasionally hunting and fishing as well. I also love playing with my toddler (who I sometimes make music with).
Q
Do you listen to music for fun? If so, what is currently your jam?
A
These days I listen to broadcasts more than my own picks. WMUA (jazz and world music blocks) from 8-3:30, KCRW (Morning Becomes Eclectic and Eclectic 24) from 3:30-5, and IPR (Studio One Tracks) from 7-9.
When I run, it's my iPod punk playlist, though.
Q
What is your vision for the future of AI and its various implications for humanity?
A
I'm not sure I have a vision, but I hope it's positive.
Q
I have a few questions regarding lab with Charlie, but nothing specifically for you (though I am curious if there are photos from this band you were in).
A
(One has been hanging on my inside office bulletin board for seven years.)