What is computer science? (20 points)
The purpose of this assignment is to try to give you a good start to
understanding what computer science is by asking you to give a clear
definition of what it is based on what those in the field think it is.
The audience you are writing for is the general public—that is,
assume the reader has no knowledge of computer science or any of the
terminology.
Give a clear and complete definition of computer science,
making sure to define any terms you use (information, computation,
computing system, etc.). You should find, modify, or create a definition
that makes perfect sense to you. In other words, do not just use the
"dictionary" definition if it does not make sense to you. Either modify
it so it makes more sense, further clarify it so it makes sense, or
look for other definitions.
A good format for your answer would be a one sentence definition
followed by one or more paragraphs further clarifying your definition.
If you use this format, you may quote your one sentence definition from
one of your sources if you find a definition you think is clear and
complete.
Make sure you include your definition as a quote so it is
clear that it is not your definition, and cite the source.
Then provide
a clarification of the definition by defining any vague terms and
giving further explanation as needed.
Use your textbook, Wikipedia (If it's on Wikipedia, it has to be true!),
Google, a dictionary, the library, and any other source of information
you can think of to find the best definition you can.
In fact, it might be helpful to get
definitions from multiple sources and merge them into one definition.
Your answer should be no longer than one page (and no shorter than half a
page), and must be typeset. (That is, it may not be hand written.)
You should have at least three different sources (the textbook counts),
and make sure to cite all of your sources!
Follow the guidelines given on the Project page for citing and listing references.
Grades will be based on the
Paper Grading
Criteria 2.0.