Mathematical Foundations of Computing In this course we will provide an introduction to the mathematical foundations of computer science, with an emphasis on formal reasoning. Topics will include propositional and predicate logic, sets, functions, and relations; basic number theory; mathematical induction and other proof methods; combinatorics, probability, and recurrence relations; graph theory; and models of computation. (CSCI 0145 or CSCI 0146 or CSCI 0150)

Senior Seminar The senior seminar provides a capstone experience for computer science majors at Middlebury College. We will discuss strategies for conducting research and developing large-scale software while effectively communicating technical concepts through writing and presentations. In teams, students will identify a research question or software development project and then design, develop, test and analyze their final products. Lectures will be complemented by readings and discussions related to the impacts of computing on society. This course fulfills the Responsible Computing requirement for the Computer Science major.

Intensive Introduction to Computing In this course we will provide an introduction to the field of computer science, geared towards students with some prior computer science or programming experience, or a background in quantitative problem-solving (e.g., advanced math coursework). Students will learn a variety of algorithmic strategies, including iterative and recursive approaches, and how to implement those strategies as Python programs. We will study computational techniques utilized in the natural sciences, social sciences and other disciplines. Additional topics will include large-scale data analysis and the ethical issues introduced by computing technologies.

Computer Graphics Computer graphics is the study of how computers represent, manipulate, and ultimately display visual information. In this course we will focus primarily on three-dimensional graphics, touching on topics such as modeling (meshes, hierarchical models, and transformations), rendering (lighting, texturing, rasterization, and clipping), animation, and GPU programming. We will look at the mathematical foundations of these techniques as well as implementation techniques using WebGL.

Data Structures In this course we will study the ideas and structures helpful in designing algorithms and writing programs for solving large, complex problems. The Java programming language and object-oriented paradigm are introduced in the context of important abstract data types (ADTs) such as stacks, queues, trees, and graphs. We will study efficient implementations of these ADTs, and learn classic algorithms to manipulate these structures for tasks such as sorting and searching. Prior programming experience is expected, but prior familiarity with the Java programming language is not assumed. (CSCI 0145 or CSCI 0146 or CSCI 0150)

Geometric Modeling The ability to describe three-dimensional geometric objects is fundamental for computer-aided design,  scientific computing, and computer graphics. In this course we will investigate common methods for  building and manipulating digital representations of three-dimensional curves, surfaces, and solids using  polygonal and polyhedral meshes. This includes topics in mesh parameterization, adaptation, and registration, as well as surface reconstruction and deformation. We will also review common numerical methods used in scientific computing, including the finite element method, and study techniques for visualization, analysis, and design. Students will implement labs and projects using C++, within a framework provided by the instructor. (CSCI 0202 and MATH 0200) 3 hrs. sem

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.

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

Philip Caplan

Reviews and ratings for Philip Caplan at Middlebury College.Philip Caplan teaches Math Foundations of Computing, Senior Seminar, Intensive Intro to Computing and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Philip Caplan good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Although the instructor was nice and the grading is very fair as you can redo any assignments, it does become more than it is worth if you do not intend to follow up in the class.  I would say only take it if you are serious about comp sci, otherwise do not.

Computer Graphics as heavy in linear algebra in the beginning,  and if you haven't taken the math class it might feel a bit rushed. Overall good course, you are allowed to resubmit assignments which takes the weight off of them a bit. 

This is a great elective to take (and is much easier than many other CS electives). The only assignments are weekly homeworks that can be revised up until a final due date. Caplan is a great professor.