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Introduction to Computer Science

Introduction

Introduction to Computer ScienceIntroduction
Image of a supercomputer in the background with code visible in front.
Figure 7.1 High-level languages make it easier for programmers to solve problems and design software at a level above the computer’s architecture. (credit: modification of “Computer science and engineering” by “BVECJordan”/Wikimedia Commons, CC0)

Chapter Outline

7.1 Programming Language Foundations
7.2 Programming Language Constructs
7.3 Alternative Programming Models
7.4 Programming Language Implementation

Programming is the science behind writing programs, which makes it possible to implement algorithms that leverage mathematical and/or scientific knowledge. Programming is also an art that requires creativity and employs imagination. High-level languages (HLLs) give programmers the ability to produce linguistic realizations of algorithms using a notational system that facilitates human-computer interaction.

TechWorks is an example of a company focused on new technology; for it to leverage technology and fulfill its stated mission, it regularly makes decisions on which HLLs to use, what exactly to use them for, and many other HLL suitability factors such as the following:

  • Types of application
  • Target platforms
  • Maintainability
  • Scalability
  • Performance
  • Security

TechWorks will need to choose from a pool of programming languages that excel in different areas. For example, JavaScript is a versatile language that applies to the interactive elements that users will see and interact with when using TechWorks’s web interfaces. JavaScript is a natural choice for this task due to its ability to create dynamic and engaging user experiences. For server-side operations, the choice of programming languages must strike a balance between latest technology needs and experienced programmers’ preferences. JavaScript with frameworks like Node offers a cutting-edge approach, while established languages like PHP or ASP.NET boast a larger pool of seasoned programmers. TechWorks will need to use the Structured Query Language (SQL) to communicate with database systems used to support its applications. Python is a powerful tool language for data analysis and manipulation. Its extensive libraries and clear syntax make it well-suited to extract insights from TechWorks’s collected data. In a nutshell, TechWorks will need to strategically combine the use of various programming languages to create robust and user-friendly applications.

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