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Meeting Summary: CS 315-01 Lecture/Lab (Fall 2025)

  • Date: August 19, 2025
  • Time: 08:06 AM Pacific
  • Meeting ID: 886 4953 2573

Quick Recap

The session opened with introductions led by Professor Greg Benson, who outlined his background in computer science and the purpose of the computer architecture course: to connect theory with practical implementation. The group discussed the role of AI in education, sharing experiences, benefits, concerns, and best practices for responsible use. The meeting concluded with an overview of the course structure, covering programming languages (C and assembly), digital design concepts, and hands-on learning—supported by responsible AI use and interactive activities.

Next Steps

  • Professor Greg Benson
  • Upload the course website and email the link to all students today.
  • Provide the complete course syllabus.
  • Share resources and prompts for using AI Study Mode to support learning.

  • Provide tutorials on terminal-based editors (e.g., micro).

  • Students

  • Bring laptops to the lab session tomorrow for development environment setup.
  • Prepare for SSH setup and access to Beagle machines in lab.

Summary

Understanding Computer Architecture Through Experience

Professor Benson, a computer science professor at USF with 27 years of experience, developed this course 27 years ago to address the gap between theory and implementation. The course teaches how computers work from the ground up, emphasizing the importance of understanding computer operations for modern computer scientists—especially in areas like machine learning that rely on specialized hardware.

AI Tools in Academic Context

Professor Benson encouraged community building and student introductions (name, preferred name, and origin). He shared his experience using AI to migrate a course website from Jekyll to MkDocs, noting the growing sophistication of tools such as Claude for planning and execution. June, a TA, described using AI for image processing and observed significant improvements in model capabilities over time. Shreyas was introduced as another TA.

AI Education and Student Perspectives

Students and faculty discussed AI’s pros and cons. Some expressed concerns about overreliance and the risk of replacing human work; others cited productivity benefits. Professor Benson emphasized treating AI as an assistant, understanding its limitations, and being mindful of inaccuracies.

AI’s Environmental and Energy Impact

The group discussed AI’s environmental footprint, energy usage, and potential benefits across domains such as coding and scientific research. There was agreement that the field must balance innovation with efficiency, recognizing both the promise and the trade-offs of AI.

Course Structure and Expectations Overview

The course includes: - Clear expectations for participation, grading, and responsible device use. - A typical lecture flow with a 10-minute break. - An emphasis on engagement, enjoyment, and consistent practice.

Binary Data and Systems Programming

The course focuses on binary data representation and low-level programming, using C as a learning tool. While C remains foundational to many systems, Rust is highlighted for its memory safety and growing relevance in systems programming. The course begins with C, transitions to assembly, and incorporates AI Study Mode as a learning aid.

Assembly Language Introduction and Projects

Assembly language is introduced as a human-readable layer above machine code. The course emphasizes small, focused projects to build skills with limited abstractions. After assembly, students will examine machine code directly, following a custom approach designed by Professor Benson rather than a traditional textbook.

RISC-V Processor Design Course Overview

Students will: - Use a RISC-V emulator in C to build familiarity with machine code before digital design. - Learn the role of cache memory in mitigating processor–memory speed mismatches. - Gain visual design skills in digital circuits, culminating in building a working processor—an accelerated version of typical electrical engineering coursework.

CS 315 Programming Transition Overview

The course integrates three “languages”: - C - Assembly - Schematic circuits (visual, parallel design)

Students will practice debugging, problem-solving, and incremental development, with a methodical approach to building and testing.

Command-Line Skills and AI Integration

Students are expected to use command-line editors to support interactive grading and to strengthen essential development skills. AI chat assistance is encouraged for learning and tutoring, used responsibly and with critical evaluation. Professor Benson emphasized that AI enhances productivity but does not replace domain expertise. Course logistics include assessments, weekly deliverables, and environment setup, with laptops required in lab for hands-on work.