Invitation to Computer Science [Paperback]

Gain a contemporary overview of today's computer science with the best-selling INVITATION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE, 8E. This flexible, non-language-specific book uses an algorithm-centered approach that's ideal for your first introduction to computer science. Measurable learning objectives and a clear hierarchy help introduce algorithms, hardware, virtual machines, software development, applications, and social issues. Exercises, practice problems, and feature boxes emphasize real-life context as well as the latest material on privacy, drones, cloud computing, and net neutrality. Optional online language modules for C++, Java, Python, C#, and Ada let you learn a programming language. MindTap is available with online study tools, a digital Lab Manual and lab software with 20 laboratory projects. Hands-on activities enable you to truly experience the fundamentals of today's computer science.1. An Introduction to Computer Science. Part I: THE ALGORITHMIC FOUNDATIONS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE. 2. Algorithm Discovery and Design. 3. The Efficiency of Algorithms. Part II: THE HARDWARE WORLD. 4. The Building Blocks: Binary Numbers, Boolean Logic, and Gates. 5. Computer Systems Organization. Part III: THE VIRTUAL MACHINE. 6. An Introduction to System Software and Virtual Machines. 7. Computer Networks and Cloud Computing. 8. Information Security. Part IV: THE SOFTWARE WORLD. 9. Introduction to High-Level Language Programming. 10. The Tower of Babel: Programming Languages. 11. Compilers and Language Translation. 12. Models of Computation. Part V: APPLICATIONS. 13. Simulation and Modeling. 14. Ecommerce, Databases, and Data Science. 15. Artificial Intelligence. 16. Computer Graphics and Entertainment: Movies, Games, and Virtual Communities. Part VI: SOCIAL ISSUES IN COMPUTING. 17. Making Decisions about Computers, Information, and Society.