Day 1: Intro to the Unix shell

A) Set up your computer

Following these instructions to set up your computer. Make sure you download the data set, we will be using it during lecture.

B) Read for in-class discussion

Read the episode “Introducing the Shell” and prepare the following questions for in-class discussion:

• What is the most widely used way to interact with computers?
• What is a command shell?
• Why would I use the command shell?
• Explain how the shell relates to the keyboard, the screen, the operating system, and users’ programs.
• Explain when and why command-line interfaces should be used instead of graphical interfaces.
• What is a prompt?