Computers and Programming

Welcome

Computers and Programming is an introductory class in computers for those who want more than mere programming instruction. Besides learning to program, you'll also get a broad education in computers. This class is taught in small, personalized sessions, so it's perfect for homeschoolers.

The course starts by teaching the Java programming language. This is a serious language used to build many important programs (all Android smart-phone apps are written with this). Because of Java's complexity, students will not master it in this half-credit class. Instead, they will gain familiarity, write a few simple programs, and discover how extensive computer programming can be.

In addition to programming, the class also offers a series of “curiosity lessons” that give you an understanding of the entire computer phenomenon so you become more literate in this modern tech world. Ever wondered how the Internet works? Would you like to know what's going on in those tiny microchips? Curious to know how they make those dazzling computer-animated movies? Want to understand how Bitcoin and other crypto-currencies work? And just what is Artificial Intelligence? These subjects and more are explained in easy and fun lessons.

Details

• In each of the twelve classes, students will get one Java lesson and one Curiosity lesson. Classes will be held on Fridays, from 11:00am to 12:30pm and the next session will start on January 17, 2025. The meeting place is near Augusta Road in Greenville (contact me for the specific address).
• There are six homework assignments, but no quizzes or tests. Grades are optional. This is about learning. Students don't even need to take notes because the lesson slides are posted online after each class.
• Students need a laptop or tablet (something with a keyboard) so they can write Java programs.
• This class counts as a half credit. Students in South Carolina need a full credit of Computers to graduate high school. Students who do well in this class can get the other half credit by doing a programming project, which I will supervise.
• I do an individual chat with each prospective student, but not to evaluate ability ... no student is turned away due to lack of knowledge. Instead, the chats are to establish mutual comfort during the course, and are also useful to me so I know what needs to be taught and what does not.

What People are Saying

From parents:

• “My son is soaking up the information you are teaching. He chats with me the entire car ride home all about the facts and stories you share.”
• “Thank you so much for the wonderful things my daughter learned. It helped her feel more confident about her general knowledge regarding computers. Now, she isn't afraid to delve deeper on her own, when she's curious about various subjects in the field.”
• “My son thoroughly enjoyed your class and says you're his favorite teacher to date. It was very thought provoking for him.”
• After taking the class online in 2020: “My son hates remote learning but he really enjoyed this course. He told me that this was the best online class he's had.”

From students:

• “I really liked your class! You're a really good teacher and I liked how you were always patient and explained everything to me.”
• “Thank you so much for all that you taught me. I have learned so much and had lots of fun.”
• “You are a good teacher and know how to capture the attention of your listeners. I liked the curiosity lessons a lot and learned a few new things I would not have learned elsewhere.”
• “After having your class my interest in technology grew. Someone gave me a broken computer, so I took everything apart and cleaned it up. Now it works perfectly. I will miss having your classes.”

Your Teacher

I'm a retired computer scientist from California's Silicon Valley.

I have a Ph.D. in Computer Science and over fifty-five years of programming experience in dozens of computer languages. I've taught introductory programming to college freshmen and also taught advanced computer graphics at both Carnegie Mellon University and at Stanford. I like to teach, and I can't wait to teach you.

Play this four-minute video to learn a little about programming and get a piece of a curiosity lesson. The video dates back to the lockdown when lessons were online, so references to that, and to specific scheduling, can be ignored.

Questions? Interested in taking the class? Contact me at: strubin@rulabinsky.com

Why Is This Class Free?

Folks wonder why I'm teaching for free. The answer has two parts. First, I don't need the money. Second, this is part of my “elder” plan to give back for a fortunate career that paid me to play with my favorite toys. As a teenager, I was thrilled by the idea that I could program a computer, then watch it follow my instructions. I've never lost that fascination, and if I can spark that kind of interest in young people, it's all worthwhile.