Computer Science 150 LA: Fundamentals of Computing I (CS2B)
MWF 11:00 – 11:50 a.m. TH 1:00 – 1:50 p.m.
This course teaches the basics of computer programming. Students learn these concepts by creating programs that address problems in other disciplines, and even create their own computer games. Topics covered include: variables, conditionals, looping, object-oriented programming, and program design. Students taking this course should have a good grasp of logic. Those with an aptitude for math typically do well in Computer Science.
Note: This course has a prerequisite of a Math ACT of 22 or higher or equivalent credit for Math 130.
Cornerstone 2B. Four hours.
This course is of particular interest to students:
- Wishing to pursue a major in Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Math, Physics, and some pre-engineering programs.
- Wishing to complete a component of the Cornerstone 2B requirement.
- Planning to teach high school math. All other education students are required to take different classes to satisfy Cornerstone 2B.
- Wishing to become skilled in automating the information processing tasks which allow accountants, business analysts, scientists, and engineers to spend their time thinking rather than doing repetitive tasks.
- Preparing for careers in fields as varied as controlling spacecraft to refinancing mortgages.
Note:
Because of the prerequisites, it is hard to get a major or minor in Computer Science if this class is not taken during the student's first year.
Meet Your Professor
Paul Craven
Instructor of Computer Science
Paul Craven spent fifteen years working in Information Technology. He has written software for mapping, financial markets, mortgage applications, Internet applications, and even solar powered cars. Projects have ranged from small one-person projects to managing a $30 million dollar development project.
Paul has a Masters degree from the University of Missouri-Rolla. He is finishing a Ph.D. from the University of Idaho. Paul’s academic interests include security, web applications, open-source, and software engineering.
He also enjoys hot air ballooning and storm-spotting.
Meet Your Destination Leader
Katrina Housholder
Hi! I am going to be a Sophomore this fall at Simpson. I absolutely love it here. I am a math major with a secondary education minor. I took the Computer Science LAS class last year, and am very excited to be back for another semester!!
I am from Huntley, Illinois and even though the distance gets hard sometimes, I wouldn't trade going to Simpson for anything. I love to go out with my friends, we hang out at Starbucks and Borders a lot back home, I love to read.
At Simpson, I am in Math Club and recently participated in the Math Modeling Competition. It sounds slightly nerdy, but it was one of the best experiences I have had at Simpson. Although I don't participate in any sports, I love to go cheer on my friends. I can't wait to meet all of you guys and get to know you better! I am ready for a fun semester!!

