Computing Insights

Computing Insights offers the opportunity to learn about computing from some of the world’s top scientists in the field. See our CI brochure here.

CI is an intensive one-week workshop, offering bright and motivated high school students the chance to experience university-level computer science. Each July, a group of students convenes at UofT to explore the tremendous scope of computer science through lectures and hands-on labs.

Lectures are given by UofT professors and graduate students who are excited about sharing their knowledge with students. In addition, some undergraduate students may be invited to talk about the cool projects they are doing! This program is able to give students the chance to see some of the exciting work being done in our department. Past lectures have included:

Bugs in the Space Program

by Professor Steve Easterbrook,

based on his experience consulting for NASA

Machine Learning for Computer Graphics

by Professor Aaron Hertzmann,

selected as one of the "2004 TR100"

(MIT's Technology Review's list recognizing the top 100 innovators under 35)

Uncomputability - What Computers Can't Do

by Professor Vassos Hadzilacos,

an expert on the theory of distributed computing

Psychorealism in Computer Animation

by Professor Karan Singh,

Software R&D Director for the film "Ryan,"

winner of the 2005 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film

Hands-on labs, which have been tailored to CI participants’ backgrounds, allow students to develop their programming abilities and apply them to topics addressed in the lectures. Over the course of the program, students work through exercises designed to reinforce good software practices and work on a project to further develop their skills. Projects have run the gamut from creating games to implementing encryption schemes. Labs are conducted by graduate students, who provide individual guidance and advice, while sharing their experience as computer scientists.

CI gives students a chance to experience university life first hand - being on campus, attending lectures, and interacting with professors and students - and gives them a chance to meet new people who share their interests. Social activities are scheduled throughout the week to encourage relationships with the program staff and fellow attendees.

Some programming experience is preferred for CI participants, but it’s not necessary. Applicants will be considered if they are strong in math, self-motivated and have an interest in learning about computer science!