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How I got a CS degree with pen and paper and why I'm doing it again

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Re: How I got a CS degree with pen and paper and why I'm doing it again

#61

Post by xixi77 »

robertbenjamin wrote: post #57
chrisseaton wrote: post #34

Earlier quoted context omitted.

But almost nobody proves that programs they write on computers work either. When was the last time you proved a program correct?

You don't prove that it's "correct," as there is no such thing as a "correct" program. You prove that it works.

I think you may be assuming that the purpose of a CS degree is to teach people how to write programs that work, while it's really not :)

And there is such a thing as a correct implementation of an algorithm. Running it does not exactly prove things either, and it might not necessarily work on actual hardware, but it does show that the person understands at least part of the material.

Re: How I got a CS degree with pen and paper and why I'm doing it again

#62

Post by jwdunne »

yodsanklai wrote: post #47
jwdunne wrote: post #2

Interesting article. I can touch type but I prefer pen and paper for to do lists, mind maps, exploring problems and note taking. It's always seemed more "effective" than using a computer or my phone - even crossing off a task feels better. I always assumed this was because I engage more areas of the brain. I'm excited to find the real reason so the research is now on my to-read list.

> I always assumed this was because I engage more areas of the brain Or could it be just because it's still hard to draw things and write formulas using a computer.

In fairness, in my own notes, formulas are rare. The only thing close to drawing in my notes is a spider diagram and MindNode is probably a lot easier and friendlier than pen and paper for that.

I can probably cover my ground in Photoshop than I can on paper too.

Pen and paper just seems to make things 'sink in'. Feels a bit different to being hindered by the tool of choice!

Re: How I got a CS degree with pen and paper and why I'm doing it again

#63

Post by lfowles »

rondsquare wrote: post #22
vvanders wrote: post #16

Earlier quoted context omitted.

We're talking about high school here though. Seems to me it would be like running a chemistry class without doing any lab work.

Not trying to be argumentative or anything, but that's how chemistry is taught in 3rd world countries. Labs are a luxury :)

And rural America :)

Re: How I got a CS degree with pen and paper and why I'm doing it again

#64

Post by lfowles »

inanutshellus wrote: post #7

Misleading title - He took class notes using a notebook instead of a laptop. I dared to hope to find some absurd story about turning in his CS homework in hand-written C++...

That's how tests were in Data Structures class (but C# and the method boilerplate printed, so just fill in the blank)
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