LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

CSIS 215 Algorithms and Data Structures (3 Credit Hours)

Spring Semester 2017

Prof. Terri Sipantzi

tlsipantzi@liberty.edu
434-592-4921
DeMoss Hall 3410F / Office Hours

I. Course Description
Study of data structures such as linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs.
Algorithms for manipulating such structures will be introduced and analyzed. Static
and dynamic memory allocation. Access methods for sorting/searching, such as
hashing and tree searching.
II. Rationale
This course helps students learn to integrate their problem-solving and
programming knowledge by emphasizing the thought processes and techniques
that computer scientists use to deal with data structures. Learning how to
systematically solve problems is more important than simply learning the
mechanics of an algorithm. Data abstraction and recursion are used to design and
refine solutions to problems throughout the course. Programming style, code
robustness, documentation and debugging aids are also emphasized.
III. Prerequisite statement
CSIS 112 and MATH 250 Minimum grade of C for both classes.
It is the students responsibility to make up any prerequisite deficiencies, as stated
in the Liberty University Catalog, which would prevent the successful completion of
this course.
IV. Materials List
Text Required: A Practical Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithm
Analysis, Edition 3.2.0.10, 2013, Clifford Shaffer, available online at
http://people.cs.vt.edu/~shaffer/Book/C++3elatest.pdf

Additional (Optional) Resource:

http://algoviz.org/OpenDSA/Books/CS226JHUS16/html/index.html
V. Student Outcomes
(a) An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering
(b) An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and
interpret data

CSIS 215 1
 (c) An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system,
process, component, or program to meet desired needs
(i) An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing
practice.
(j) An ability to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and
computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based
systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved
in design choices.
(k) An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools
necessary for engineering practice.
VI. Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Use C++ classes to implement Abstract Data Types.

2. Use recursion as a problem solving technique.
3. Apply common software data structures to applications.
4. Use basic algorithms for searching, sorting and table access.
5. Demonstrate the use of graphs and solutions to common graph problems.
6. Apply a biblical worldview to data structures and algorithms.

VII. Assignments/Requirements
Written homework (2)
Programming Assignments (5)
Exams (2)
VIII. Grading Policies
Midterm Exam 150
Final Exam 150
Projects (5 100 points each) 500
Class Participation 25 (subjective see note below)
Homework 175
Total 1000

Letter grades are as follows: A: 900-1000, B: 800-899, C: 700-799, D: 600-699, F: 0-599

Class Participation this is a subjective grading. If my perception is that you have

participated then you get credit for it and vice versa. Your attendance must be perfect
(excused absences are allowed) to get participation credit.

Late work will not be accepted unless the student coordinates a new date with the
instructor at least two school days before the assignment is due. When requesting

CSIS 215 2
 an extension you will receive one of the following decisions based on the merits of
your request:
Approval of the new submission date.
Approval of the new submission date with late penalty accessed.
Disapproval of the request for extension.
IX. Attendance Policies
For the good of the Liberty University student body, a consistent attendance policy
is needed so that all students in all majors will understand the expectations of faculty in all
their courses. In general, regular and punctual attendance in all classes is expected
of all students. At times, students will miss classes. These absences will be identified
as either excused or unexcused and will be handled per the policy below.
Excused Absences
Excused absences include all Liberty University sponsored events, to include
athletic competition or other provost-approved event.
Absences due to medical illness that are accompanied by a doctors note will
be excused.
Absences due to family situations such as a death in the family or a severe
medical condition will be excused
Students will not be penalized for excused absences and will be permitted to
make arrangements to complete missed work.
Unexcused Absences
Classes that meet:
o Three times per week will permit four unexcused absences per
semester.
o Twice per week will permit three unexcused absences per semester.
o Once per week will permit one unexcused absence per semester.
Questions regarding unexcused absences must be resolved by the student with
the professor within one week of the absence. Students may appeal these
decisions to the respective dean within one week.
Extraordinary circumstances regarding excessive absences will be addressed
by the student with the faculty member, department chair, and dean as
required.

CSIS 215 3
 Penalties for each unexcused absence over the permitted number per
semester will be as follows:
o 50 points for classes that meet 3 times per week
o 75 points for classes that meet 2 times per week
o 150 points for classes that meet once per week

Students who are late for class 10 minutes or less are considered tardy but
present for the class. If a student misses in-class work due to tardiness, the
faculty member may choose not to allow the student to make up this work.
Three class tardies will be counted as one unexcused absence.
Students who are more than 10 minutes late for class are considered absent
X. Other Policies
Dress Code
Students are expected to come to class dressed in a manner consistent with The
Liberty Way.
Honor Code
We, the students, faculty, and staff of Liberty University, have a responsibility to
uphold the moral and ethical standards of this institution and personally confront
those who do not.
Limits of Confidentiality
Students are encouraged to share prayer requests and life concerns with the
professor in this class. Not only will the professor pray for and care for students,
but can guide students to appropriate University resources if desired.
However, in the event of a students disclosure, either verbally or in writing, of
threat of serious or foreseeable harm to self or others, abuse or neglect of a minor,
elderly or disabled person, victim or witness of a crime or sexual misconduct, or
current involvement in criminal activity, the faculty, staff, administrator, or
supervisor will take immediate action. This action may include, but is not limited to,
immediate notification of appropriate state law enforcement or social services
personnel, emergency contacts, notification of the appropriate program chair or
online dean, or notification to other appropriate University officials. All reported
information is treated with discretion and respect, and kept as private as possible.
Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct includes: academic dishonesty, plagiarism, and falsification.
See The Liberty Way for specific definitions, penalties, and processes for reporting.
Disability Statement
CSIS 215 4
 Students with a documented disability may contact the Office of Disability
Academic Support (ODAS) in Religion Hall 126 to make arrangements for
academic accommodations. For all disability testing accommodation requests (i.e.
quieter environment, extended time, oral testing, etc.) the Testing Center (Religion
Hall 119) is the officially designated place for all tests administered outside of the
regular classroom.
DROP/ADD POLICY
A Fall/Spring course may be dropped without a grade, tuition, and fee charges
within the first five days of the semester. From the sixth day until the end of the
tenth week (see academic calendar for exact date), a Fall/Spring course may be
withdrawn with a grade of W.
Classroom Policies
The inappropriate use of technology, such as cell phones, iPods, laptops,
calculators, etc. in the classroom is not tolerated. Other disruptive behavior in the
classroom is not tolerated. Students who engage in such misconduct will be
subject the penalties and processes as written in the Liberty Way.
XI. Calendar for the semester/term
Open Schedule

CSIS 215 5