Procedures:

1. The required book is Introduction to the Theory of Computation, 2nd Edition by Michael Sipser. The best way to learn the material is by solving problems. You are encouraged to work in pairs, because the best way to understand the subtleties of the homework problems is to argue about the answers. You should cite all sources you used for your problem sets (both people and publications. Each of you should look at all the problems independently, and not just divide the list in two parts each time. You must write up the problems independently. Unless you learn how to solve problems, I promise that you will get burned on the exams and thus for your final grade.
2. Your solutions should be very neatly written.  If your solution is unclear, sloppy, or if your solution is hard to understand, you will have points deducted even if your solution is correct.  One of the best way to make your solutions clear is to include pictures and examples.
3. Homeworks and class participation will be worth approximately 20% of the grade, the midterm will be worth approximately 35% of your grade, and final will be worth approximately 45% of your grade. Class participation includes attendance and asking/answering questions. If we need quizes, I will scale these three scores accordingly.
4. Homework assignments will be due at the beginning of class. Late assignments will not be accepted.
5. It is extremely important that you start homework assignments early. The homeworks are very hard, and if you get behind in your work, you may find it too difficult to catch up.  I strongly encourage you to attend the office hours. This will almost certainly improve your performance in the course.
6. Because a primary goal of the course is to teach professionalism, any academic dishonesty will be viewed as evidence that this goal has not been achieved, and will be grounded for receiving a grade of F. (See CEAS Procedures and Guideline Governing Academic Dishonesty, 1/81.)
7. Please check out our department webpage on professional ethics and computer science.
8. If you have a physical, psychological, medical or learning disability that may impact your course work, please contact Disability Support Services, 128 ECC Building (631) 632-6748. They will determine with you what accommodations are necessary and appropriate. All information and documentation is confidential. Students who require assistance during emergency evacuation are encouraged to discuss their needs with their professors and Disability Support Services. For procedures and information go to the following web site: http://www.ehs.sunysb.edu and search Fire safety and Evacuation and Disabilities.