Tag Archives: Volunteer

BEGINNER Python or Project Euler (Eric Menninga)

Eric is willing to offer one of two classes in Spring Term:

Learn basic beginner programming with Python and PyGame. Topics you’ll explore games, fractals, and simulations. After you take this class, you should have a better understanding about how computer programs work and can create a simple python program with graphics.

OR

Project Euler, a series of challenging mathematical/computer programming problems that requires more than just mathematical knowledge to solve. Although mathematics will help you arrive at elegant and efficient methods, the use of a computer and programming skills will be required to solve most problems—which are challenging. You can check out the Problems before deciding.

Required texts/materials:

  • Python (free)
  • Euler (free)
Students will be responsible for obtaining their own texts/materials. Materials should be procured by:

  • Outside work: Occasional throughout the term
  • Minimum students: 3
  • Sessions per week: 2

Mandarin Chinese (Kathy and Jeremy)

Chinese is the most common language on the Internet.  Heck, Chinese is the most common language, period.  Mandarin is the most widely spoken version of Chinese, with the number of Mandarin speakers being almost equal to the next three most widely spoken languages combined (Spanish, English, and Hindi).

With all those people speaking Chinese, it makes sense to learn a little.  Chinese can be a very challenging language, but it’s one where even a little can be impressive.  We will focus on some very practical words and phrases so that you can actually use what you learn.  We’ll learn some polite words like “please” and “thank you,” some learning phrases like “What does that mean in English?”, and some food words so maybe you can impress your family the next time you go to a Chinese restaurant.

We will not learn to read and write characters for a couple of reasons: unlike an alphabet, you can’t tell how a word is pronounced by looking at the character (and you may only be able to guess at the meaning), they’re terribly complicated, and I don’t read very well myself.

The homework will involve practicing what we cover in class in various ways.

  • Outside work: A small amount (e.g., <30 min) for each session
  • Minimum students: 2
  • Sessions per week: 2