Invitation to Computer Science (8th Edition)

Specifications

Book Description

“Invitation to Computer Science,” written by G. Michael Schneider and Judith Gersting, offers an engaging and comprehensive introduction to the world of computer science. Here's an overview of what you can expect from the 8th edition:

1. Introduction to Computer Science: The book begins with an introduction to the field of computer science, covering its history, core concepts, and the impact of computers on society. It also discusses career opportunities in the field.
2. Algorithm Design and Problem Solving: Schneider explores the process of algorithm design and problem-solving techniques used in computer science. This section covers topics such as algorithm analysis, efficiency, correctness, and recursion.
3. Computer Hardware: The textbook delves into computer hardware components and organization, including processors, memory, storage devices, input/output devices, and system architecture. It discusses how hardware components interact to execute programs and process data.
4. Operating Systems: Schneider discusses operating system concepts and functions, including process management, memory management, file systems, and device management. He explores different types of operating systems, such as batch systems, time-sharing systems, and distributed systems.
5. Networks and the Internet: The book covers computer networks and the Internet, including network architecture, protocols, transmission media, and network security. Schneider discusses how data is transmitted across networks and the role of protocols such as TCP/IP.
6. Programming Languages: Schneider explores different programming paradigms and languages, including procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming languages. He discusses language syntax, semantics, and features, as well as software development tools and environments.
7. Data Structures: The textbook delves into data structures and their applications in computer science. Schneider covers fundamental data structures such as arrays, lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs, as well as algorithms for searching, sorting, and manipulating data.
8. Database Systems: Schneider discusses database concepts and management systems, including data models, database design, SQL queries, transaction management, and database security. He explores relational, hierarchical, network, and object-oriented database models.
9. Artificial Intelligence: The book explores artificial intelligence (AI) concepts and techniques, including problem-solving methods, knowledge representation, expert systems, machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics. Schneider discusses the potential applications and ethical implications of AI.
10. Ethical and Social Issues: Throughout the book, Schneider addresses ethical and social issues related to computer science, such as privacy, security, intellectual property, digital rights, accessibility, and the impact of technology on society.
11. Emerging Technologies: Schneider explores emerging technologies and trends in computer science, such as cloud computing, big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, augmented reality, and blockchain. He discusses their potential applications and implications for the future.

“Invitation to Computer Science” is designed to be accessible to students with diverse backgrounds and interests, providing them with a solid foundation in computer science principles and practices. With its clear explanations, real-world examples, and engaging exercises, it serves as an invaluable resource for anyone interested in exploring the fascinating world of computer science.