Cosmic Computation: Applying an Astrophysics Lens to COS 126 Assignments

Abstract

Over the last couple of years, Princeton has seen a rise in department-specific, introductory computer science (COS) courses offered. This rise demonstrates a potential interest in subject-specific alternatives to COS 126, the introductory course in the department. However, it is unclear if these courses serve as an adequate alternative to COS 126 for students interested in continuing the COS sequence. As a result, I propose astrophysics adaptations of COS 126 assignments and fully implement three of them. Full-scale implementation includes an assignment specification document, an assignment rubric, a sample solution, and student scaffolding code. After surveying nine students and two COS department instructors, responses indicate that the modified assignments were clear, engaging, and similarly challenging to current COS 126 assignments. Further research should explore how assignments can be adapted using other fields of study.