First-year computer science competition

The Faculty of Communication and Environment at Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences organised an internal competition for students on the ‘Media and Communication Informatics’ and ‘E-Government’ degree programmes, focusing on the calculation of figures relevant to information technology. This competition took place once again as part of the ‘Fundamentals of Computer Science’ module, in which Prof. Ulrich Greveler teaches the technical fundamentals of computer science, the processing of numerical information, and how network and server operating systems work. By the end of the course, students will have acquired the foundations needed to understand complex concepts covered in the advanced modules of both computer science degree programmes.

Once again this year, the competition task was to determine the exact value of a floating-point number and be the first to submit the result. These numbers are of particular importance in the numerical calculation of natural phenomena using computers. For example, computers can use floating-point arithmetic to generate high-resolution graphics or three-dimensional film scenes and calculate the scenery from a specified viewing angle. To minimise calculation errors, the inevitable rounding errors must be monitored to ensure that they do not accumulate into disruptive values during successive calculations and thereby compromise the result.

To solve the problem, the students had to learn how to perform calculations in the binary number system, which poses a particular challenge when dealing with fractional numbers. “A good grasp of mathematics and an enjoyment of programming are the best prerequisites for studying computer science,” said Prof. Greveler, who had launched the annual competition. “Problems of this kind present a challenge to students: they have to produce a result quickly, but it must be sufficiently accurate to be of practical use,” Greveler went on to explain.

“I’d already had computer science lessons at school, so I was well prepared,” says Fabian Fritzsche, a student of Media and Communication Informatics, delighted with his award. Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences provides a solid foundation in its computer science degree programmes, combining this with practical application and the latest technologies.