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How Machines Think COMP 117 Spring 2027 Section: 01   How does a collection of silicon switches become intelligent? This course traces the architectural evolution of the computer. We start with the Turing machine learning how machines execute step-by-step algorithms and how they come to life in the von Neumann architecture. We then explore the radical shift towards machine learning and artificial intelligence, which allow a machine to understand data and probability in addition to syntax and logic. Students will progress from building basic circuits to writing Python programs in collaborative co-work with generative AI. By the end of the semester, students will not only understand the fundamentals of modern programming but also how the underlying design of the machine determines what it can know and do. This course provides an equivalent introduction to programming to COMP 112/113/114/115 and will satisfy any requirements or prerequisites that those courses satisfy. Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: NSM MATH Course Format: Lecture Grading Mode: Graded Level: UGRD Prerequisites: None Fulfills a Requirement for: None SECTION 01 Instructor(s): Zimmeck,Sebastian          Times: ...W.F. 01:20PM-02:40PM;       Location: TBA Total Enrollment Limit: 20 SR major: X JR major: X     GRAD: X SR non-major: 3 JR non-major: 2 SO: 3 FR: 12

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