Journal of Computing Sciences in Colleges 

About: Journal of Computing Sciences in Colleges is an academic journal. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Curriculum & Java. It has an ISSN identifier of 1937-4763. It is also open access. Over the lifetime, 3616 publications have been published receiving 20131 citations.

Alice: a 3-D tool for introductory programming concepts

Abstract: In learning to program, many students struggle with developing algorithms, figuring out how to apply problem solving techniques in their programs, and with how to use common programming constructs. In this paper, we present a new tool that provides a possible approach to actively engage students in increasing their knowledge and skills in these areas. The tool is Alice, a 3-D interactive animation environment.

Facial feature detection using Haar classifiers

Abstract: Viola and Jones [9] introduced a method to accurately and rapidly detect faces within an image. This technique can be adapted to accurately detect facial features. However, the area of the image being analyzed for a facial feature needs to be regionalized to the location with the highest probability of containing the feature. By regionalizing the detection area, false positives are eliminated and the speed of detection is increased due to the reduction of the area examined.

Python: the tutorial

Abstract: Over the years, programming languages have grown more powerful, but correspondingly more complex; and while that complexity is fine and appropriate for professional programmers, it hinders and discourages beginning Computer Science students.

Intel® threading building blocks

Abstract: Intel® Threading Building Blocks [1] is a C++ runtime library that abstracts the low-level threading details necessary for effectively utilizing multi-core processors. It uses C++ templates to eliminate the need to create and manage threads. Applications tend to be more portable since parallelism is achieved through library calls and utilization of a task manager for scheduling. The task manager analyzes the system the software is running on, chooses the optimal number of threads, and performs load balancing that spreads out the work evenly across all processor cores. The library consists of data structures and algorithms that simplify parallel programming in C++ by avoiding requiring a programmer to use native threading packages such as POSIX threads or Windows threads, or even the portable Boost Threads.

Teaching with games: the Minesweeper and Asteroids experience

Abstract: The value of games as a vehicle for teaching concepts while inspiring students is now well accepted at almost all levels of education. Video games, arcade and computer games are rarely given the same kind of attention. This paper will describe the value of computer games as a motivator and some of the benefits that can be realized by using known computer games as programming applications, even in the first year of a CS program. The use of two such games as assignments in CS1 and CS2 is outlined and some feedback on the experience is offered.