Week 2: Computer Hardware & Software Analysis

Extra Credit Assignment • 8 Points • Due: September 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM

Assignment Overview

Beginner
Difficulty Level
5-6.5 Hours
Estimated Time
8 Points
Quiz 2 & 3 Only

Watch the complete Crash Course Computer Science series to gain a comprehensive understanding of computer systems, hardware, software, and computing fundamentals. After completing the series, meet with the instructor during office hours for a discussion to receive credit.

Point System & Application

  • • 8 points applied to Quiz 2 and Quiz 3 grades only
  • • Cannot exceed full points for quiz grades (no overage)
  • • Cannot save points for future quizzes
  • • Must complete ALL videos to qualify, even if you only need 1 point

Learning Objectives

Understand Computer Fundamentals: Explore how computers work from basic logic gates to complex systems
Hardware & Software Integration: Learn how hardware and software components work together
Computing History & Evolution: Understand the development of computing technology over time
Modern Computing Applications: Connect computer science concepts to real-world business applications

Required Activity

You must watch ALL videos in the series and meet with the instructor during office hours to receive credit.

📺Watch Complete Video Series

Crash Course Computer Science
Complete Crash Course Computer Science Playlist

40+ episodes covering computer science fundamentals

Topics include: Logic gates, CPU design, programming, algorithms, data structures, networking, cybersecurity, AI, and more

Final Step: Office Hours Discussion

Required Discussion

After watching the complete video series, simply show up during office hours to discuss the materials with the instructor and receive your extra credit points. No appointment needed - just come during any office hours session.

Office Hours Schedule

  • Tuesday 5:00 - 6:00 PM
  • Thursday 1:00 - 2:00 PM
  • Wednesday 4:30 - 5:30 PM (Zoom)
  • By appointment

Discussion Topics

  • Key concepts from the computer science series
  • How hardware and software work together
  • Real-world applications in business
  • Most interesting or surprising topics from the series

Tips: Come prepared to share your thoughts and ask questions. Discussion takes up to 10 minutes. If multiple students arrive, discussions may be conducted as a group.

Grading Criteria

Requirements for Full Credit (8 Points)

  • Watch the complete Crash Course Computer Science series
  • Show up during office hours by the due date (no appointment needed)
  • Demonstrate understanding during discussion
  • Be able to discuss key concepts from the series

Bonus Opportunities

  • Come with thoughtful questions during office hours
  • Make connections between series content and course material
  • Share insights about business applications of computer science

How to Complete This Assignment

Deadline: Watch all videos and meet with instructor by September 12, 2025, 2:00 PM
Process: Watch the complete video series, then show up during any office hours session
Discussion: Be prepared to discuss key concepts and insights from the series (up to 10 minutes, may be group discussion)
Credit: Extra credit points will be awarded after successful completion of the office hours discussion

Important: No submission via Canvas required. Credit is earned through watching the series and office hours discussion only.