Computer Architecture A detailed study of the hardware and software that make up a computer system. Topics include assembly language programming, digital logic design, microarchitecture, pipelines, caches, and RISC vs. CISC. The goal of the course is teaching students how computers are built, how they work at the lowest level, and how this knowledge can be used to write better programs. (CSCI 0201)

Introduction to Computing In this course we will provide a broad introductory overview of the discipline of computer science, with no prerequisites or assumed prior knowledge of computers or programming. A significant component of the course is an introduction to algorithmic concepts and to programming using Python; programming assignments will explore algorithmic strategies such as selection, iteration, divide-and-conquer, and recursion, as well as introducing the Python programming language. Additional topics will include: the structure and organization of computers, the Internet and World Wide Web, abstraction as a means of managing complexity, social and ethical computing issues, and the question "What is computation?" (Juniors and Seniors by waiver) (formerly CSCI 0101) 3 hr. lect./1 hr. lab

Image Processing In this course students will learn basic image processing concepts and explore practical cross-disciplinary case studies in teams.  They will use open-source tools to tackle real-world image and video analysis problems ranging from enhancing and denoising to tracking and extracting information from images and videos. Collaboratively, students will get to apply these tools to a problem of their choice in a semester-long project.

Embedded Systems In this course we will learn about microcontrollers (compact single-chip integrated circuits at the core of embedded systems), including their architecture and how they interface with the outside world. In laboratory assignments, we will experiment with different families of microcontrollers, analyze various types of interfaces, and learn how to connect with external sensors and devices. While gaining hands-on familiarity with the different aspects of embedded systems, teams of students will engage in a semester-long project to design and build their own embedded system.

Senior Seminar This senior seminar provides a capstone experience for computer science majors at Middlebury College. Through lectures, readings, and a series of two to three week individual and group assignments, we will introduce important concepts in research and experimental methods in computation. Examples will include: reading research papers; identifying research problems; dealing with big data; experimental design, testing and analysis; and technical writing in computer science. This course fulfills the Responsible Computing requirement for the Computer Science major. (Approval only).

Andrea Vaccari

Reviews and ratings for Andrea Vaccari at Middlebury College.Andrea Vaccari teaches Computer Architecture, Introduction to Computing, Image Processing and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Andrea Vaccari good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Very difficult class but a very good professor to have for this class. The most challenging thing for this class is the homework. Takes a lot of time and a TA is almost always necessary if you are not very good at the subject. 

Computer Arch with Vaccari is pretty fun in my opinion. He has very, very detailed notes posted on Canvas in case you missed class. His homework assignments can be a little tough, but there are plenty of TA hours. His exams are fair and take-home, except for the final exam.  

Vaccari is awesome. He is very enthusiastic and loves what he does. The course itself is quite difficult however if you are willing to work hard and go to office hours it is manageable as someone who has never taken any computing before. 