CS465

Language is the basic for complex communication, whether as natural language between humans or as formal language between humans and computers. In programming, different kinds of formal languages are crucial tools in all stages of development, from the logics used to specify requirements, to the programming languages used to implement algorithms and the mathematical notations used to analyze their behavior. In this course we will study the general phenomenon of formal language by exploring the syntax, semantics and logics of a broad range of examples, beginning with the simplest numeral notations and operator algebras and continuing through to computationally complete languages and sophisticated type systems. In addition to studying abstract descriptions of syntax and semantics, students will reinforce their understanding by implementing language-based tools in a functional meta-language.

Willamette College

Salem