Invitation to Computer Science, 7th Edition

Discover a contemporary overview of today’s computer science with the best-selling INVITATION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE, 7E. This flexible, non-language-specific approach provides a solid foundation using an algorithm-driven approach that’s ideal for the reader’s first introduction to the field of Computer Science. Expanded chapter exercises and practice problems, feature boxes, and the latest material on emerging topics, such as privacy, drones, cloud computing, and net neutrality, connect readers with today’s most current computing issues. Optional online language modules for C++, Java, Python, C#, and Ada, correspond seamlessly with this edition allowing readers to learn a programming language while expanding their understanding of concepts from the book. An optional online CourseMate™ offers helpful study tools, such as flashcards, quizzing, and games, as well as a new Digital Lab Manual containing 20 laboratory projects that map directly to the book. Strong visual and hands-on activities enable readers to master as well as experience the fundamentals of today’s computer science.

Table of Contents

1. An Introduction to Computer Science.
Level I: The Algorithmic Foundations of Computer Science.
2. Algorithm Discovery and Design.
3. The Efficiency of Algorithms.
Level II: The Hardware World.
4. The Building Blocks: Binary Numbers, Boolean Logic, and Gates.
5. Computer Systems Organization.
Level III: The Virtual Machine.
6. An Introduction to System Software and Virtual Machines.
7. Computer Networks and Cloud Computing.
8. Information Security.
Level IV: The Software World.
9. Intro to High Level Languages (brief intro in printed text; online chapters for C++, C#, Python, Java, and Ada).
10. The Tower of Babel: Multiple Programming Voices.
11. Compilers and Language Translation.
12. Models of Computation.
Level V: Applications.
13. Simulation and Modeling.
14. Electronic Commerce.
15. Artificial Intelligence.
16. Computer Graphics and Entertainment: Movies, Games, and Virtual Communities.
Level VI: Social Issues in Computing.
17. Making Ethical Decisions