VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

252-0836-00L 4 Credits BSC , DR , MSC D-ITET , D-INFK , D-PHYS
You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

Computer Science II

Informatik II

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Friedemann Mattern
VVZ CR 3.0

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:15

Abstract

Introduction to basic problem solving methods, algorithms, and data structures. Topics: divide and conquer, recursion, sorting algorithms, backtracking, game tree search, data structures (lists, stacks, binary trees, etc.), discrete simulation, concurrency, complexity, verification. In the assignments and exercises, the programming language Java is used.

Objective

Introduction to the general methods of computer science for electrical engineers. Also provides basic skills for advanced exercises and projects later in the electrical engineering program.

Content

Part II of the lecture concentrates on the most common problem solving skills, algorithms, and data structures. It also teaches fundamental concepts and mechanisms of structured programming. Furthermore, working with formal systems, the necessity of abstraction, and the importance of modeling in computer science will be motivated. The emphasis of the lecture is on practical concepts of computer science. Specific topics are: complexity and correctness of algorithms, divide and conquer, recursion, algorithms for sorting, backtracking, game tree search, data structures (lists, stacks, inary trees, etc.), discrete simulation, concurrency, and verification. For the assignments and exercises, the programming language Java is used. Here, also modularization, abstraction, encapsulation, and object orientation will be considered. Occasionally, short remarks on the historical context of relevant concepts are given. In the practice groups, students program an automatic player for the game "Reversi"; at the end of the semester a tournament will take place.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Copies of slides, extended with bonus slides that give hints to advanced concepts and present the historical context of selected concepts.

Literature

Textbook: Mark Allan Weiss: Data Structures and Problem Solving Using Java, Addison Wesley.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC , DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 60 minutes
Aids
keine
Durch Bearbeitung der wöchentlichen Übungsserien kann ein Bonus von maximal 0.25 Notenpunkten erarbeitet werden, der an die Prüfung mitgenommen wird. Der Bonus ist proportional zur erreichten Punktzahl von speziell markierten Bonus-Aufgaben, wobei volle Punktzahl einem Bonus von 0.25 entspricht. Die Zulassung zu speziell markierten Bonusaufgaben kann von der erfolgreichen Absolvierung anderer Übungsaufgaben abhängen. Der erreichte Notenbonus verfällt, sobald die Vorlesung neu gelesen wird.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Informatik II
Hybridmodus: Bis zu 162 Studierende können die Lehrveranstaltung in Präsenz besuchen. Hierzu ist verbindlich eine Anmeldung erforderlich. Der Link zur Anmeldung wird den eingeschriebenen Studierenden vom Dozenten zusammen mit Informationen zum Online-Modus einige Tage vor Vorlesungsbeginn per E-Mail bekanntgegeben.
  • Thu 10:15-12:00 (ML D 28)
2 h weekly
exercise Informatik II
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (CHN D 42)
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (ETZ F 91)
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (ML H 34.3)
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (ML J 34.1)
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (ML J 37.1)
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (NO C 44)
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (NO D 11)
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (NO E 39)
1 h weekly

Offered In