Questions

Projects

Is there a project in the course?

Not a separate one. Each assignment has a project-like question instead, so that:

  • everyone works on similar problems;
  • we can give better guidance and support;
  • you learn the ideas by applying them.

There is no separate final project.

What does a project question look like?

An example, an activity classifier:

  1. Build a classifier for activities such as walking and running.
  2. Start with a public dataset.
  3. Collect your own data with a smartphone.
  4. Train and evaluate a classifier on your own data.
  5. Optional: deploy the classifier on your phone.

Prerequisites

What are the prerequisites?

There are no formal prerequisites, but you should know:

  • Python programming (ES 242 or equivalent)
  • data structures and algorithms
  • probability and statistics
  • linear algebra
  • basic calculus
What is the prerequisite exam?

A required exam that checks you have the background to do well in the course.

How do I prepare for the prerequisite exam?
  • Review your undergraduate course material.
  • Work through the preparation material on the home page.
  • Focus on Python, linear algebra and probability.
What if I do not clear the prerequisite exam?

You will not be allowed to enrol in the course. The instructor sets the cutoff score, which is not announced beforehand.

Classroom

Can I use my laptop in class?

No. Laptops are not allowed in class, for any reason.

Quizzes

What if I miss a quiz?
  • The quiz scores 0%.
  • The “best 3 of 4” rule covers a missed quiz.
  • There are no makeup quizzes, for any reason.
Are quizzes open book?

No. All quizzes and exams are closed book, with no notes.

When do I get my answer sheets back?

4 to 5 working days after the quiz.

What is the quiz schedule and format?
  • 2 quizzes in the mid-semester period and 2 in the end-semester period.
  • A mix of multiple-choice and written questions.

Assignments

What if I miss an assignment deadline?

No extensions are given, for any reason.

Where do I ask questions about an assignment?
  1. First, on the Slack channel #assignments.
  2. If there is no answer within 2 days, email the instructor.
Can I use a language other than Python?

No. All assignments must be in Python.

How are assignments evaluated?

Each assignment ends with a viva:

  1. TAs compare the submitted code with the code you run live.
  2. No changes are allowed during the viva (you will get a warning).
  3. You demonstrate the code and answer questions.
Assignment marks Share
Code functionality 50%
Understanding of the assignment 25%
Code quality 12.5%
Theory 12.5%

Viva questions are 75% about the assignment and 25% about theory.

Are assignments individual or group work?

Group work. Everyone in a team gets the same grade.

Attendance

What is the attendance policy?

See the attendance policy on the grading page.

Auditing

Can I audit the course?

You are welcome to attend all lectures. Auditors cannot:

  • have assignments graded (TA time is limited);
  • join an assignment team formally;
  • get official course credit.

Computing

What computing resources are available?

Google Cloud credits are usually provided for the course. They are enough for all assignments; we post an update with setup instructions when the credits are available.