Generative Art In this course we will explore the field of generative art – the artistic practice based on the creation of processes that yield art and design as an output. Through projects, we will find new applications for computing techniques such as visualization, physical simulation, stochastic processes, agent-based modeling, iterated function systems, fractals, genetic algorithms and machine learning. A portion of the class will also be devoted to reading research literature and discussing the nature of computation creativity. A background in art is not required.

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.

Software Development This course examines the process of developing larger-scale software systems. Laboratory assignments emphasize sound programming practices, tools that facilitate the development process, and teamwork.

Information Visualization Information visualization is used to reveal patterns, trends, and outliers within abstract data. In this course we will cover topics such as the transformation of data to visual representations, common approaches to dealing with different types of data, perceptual issues that govern how visualizations are interpreted, and the development of interactive visualization tools. This course will culminate in a significant final visualization project.

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?" 3 hr. lect./1 hr. lab

Understanding Our Algorithmic World In this course through lectures, labs, and discussions, we will examine the nature of computers and their role in our lives. We will use the lens of multimedia programming to learn basic computer programming and how computers represent and manipulate many common forms of data, such as text and images. We will also talk about the history of computers and learn how they interoperate to create the world we know today, and we will examine the societal impacts of technology on our lives, including implications for privacy, access to resources, and the increasing role of algorithms in shaping our world.

Usable Interface Design for Mobile Applications In this course we will explore the fundamental concepts of human-computer interaction and interface design. We will focus on applying an iterative, human-centric design process to mobile development.  Topics will include user interface design, user experience, usability, prototyping, user testing, and mobile development. A significant portion of the class will be spent developing a mobile app, walking it through the various prototyping and testing stages.

Senior Thesis The senior thesis is required for all CSCI majors who wish to be considered for high and highest departmental honors, and is recommended for students interested in pursuing graduate study in computer science. Students will spend the semester researching and writing, and developing and experimenting as appropriate for their topic. All students will be expected to report on their work in the form of a written thesis, a poster, and an oral presentation at the end of the semester. In addition, throughout the semester, students will meet as a group to discuss research and writing, and will be expected to attend talks in the Computer Science lecture series. Before approval to join the class is granted, students are expected to have chosen a thesis adviser from the CSCI faculty, and determined a thesis topic with the guidance and approval of that adviser.

Christopher Andrews

Reviews and ratings for Christopher Andrews at Middlebury College.Christopher Andrews teaches Generative Art, Computer Architecture, Software Development and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Christopher Andrews good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

This course is definitely the hardest cs class I have taken so far, and the exam structure is difficult because if you do poorly on the first exam you are kind of trapped towards the end based on how the scoring works. Definitely don't procrastinate making up the homeworks (he lets you resubmit homeworks as many times as you want until the end of the semester) because you will have a ton to do in the last week of the semester

I really enjoyed this course. It is a very unique CS elective and I highly recommend it if you want a CS elective that is different than most others. Prof Andrews is very passionate and all the topics were very engaging.

Professor Andrews was really passionate and knowledgeable. However, his exams have very vague standards and are basically impossible to study for and prepare for. I have taken four cs classes, and this was by far the toughest. I don't even think anyone ended the course with an A this semester. 