• A generic, non-language-specific approach presents the tools and concepts required when using any programming language to develop computer applications.
- Shows how problem solving is the same in all languages.
- Enables students to concentrate on problem solving (rather than syntax) regardless of the language they use, and to use the text as a reference in future courses.
• Broad coverage ranges from the basics of mathematical functions and operators to the design and use of such techniques as code, arrays, pointers, other data structures, database concepts, and object- oriented programming concepts.
• Problem-solving tools are used to discuss the problem analysis chart, interactivity (structure) chart, IPO chart, the coupling diagram, algorithms, flowcharts, and tools to help with the development of object oriented programming solutions.
- Explains and demonstrates these tools extensively using typical problems found in computer language textbooks.
• Structured programming techniques include sequential, decision, loop, and case logic structures.
- Introduces students to the correct use of modules, parameters, and variable names that allow easier development, as well as easier maintenance, of a program.
• A full chapter on variables, constants, data types, functions, operators, equations, and expressions gives students a solid foundation in the concepts that are important to know before starting to develop a program, and which make setting up the basic instructions much easier.
• Various types of data structures are explored, with full chapter coverage on arrays, stacks, linked lists, binary trees, and database.
- Prepares students to develop programs to handle almost any problem in today's market.
• Problem solving for applications details includes techniques for page layout, spreadsheets, database management systems, and document processing.
- Makes material more tangible and real-world for students, giving them hands-on practice with the types of applications they'll encounter on the job.
• “What's Wrong with This?” sections in problem sections challenge students to think critically and analytically to debug programs.
• “Putting It All Together sections” walk students through a complete solution for a given problem, using the concepts previously presented.
- In some cases, an earlier solution is updated to incorporate more sophisticated techniques.
- Ensures that students learn not only individual problem-solving techniques, but how to put them together into viable strategies for tackling specific kinds of problems/applications.
• Chapter Problems give students hands-on experience in solving problems that are typically found in computer language textbooks.
• Abundant pedagogical aids integrated throughout include chapter objectives, chapter summaries, key words, chapter exercises and problems, glossaries, and tables of flowcharting symbols and functions.