Computer Programming 1 - Module 1 Quiz

Computer Programming 1 - Module 1

• Objectives: Upon completion, students will be able to define computer programming, related terms (source code, programs), differentiate between Assembly and Machine Language, describe low-level and high-level languages, explain the difference between procedural and object-oriented programming, and identify program development steps.

What is Programming?

• Programming is a multistep process for creating a program.
• It's a way to give computers instructions about what to do next.
• Instructions are known as code.

Why Programming is Important?

• Programming is key for innovation, creating eco-friendly solutions, and speeding up input/output processes in machines.
• Programming automates, collects, manages, calculates, analyzes data and information accurately.

Computer Programming Terms

• Computer Program: A list or sequence of instructions telling a computer what to do. Everything a computer does is done using a computer program. Programs are written in programming languages.

• Programming Language (PL): A written language that instructs computers.

• Used to create computer programs and software.

• Each PL has a grammar called syntax, consisting of rules for statements.

• Programmers use PLs to write source code and build programs.

Source Code

• A well-written set of instructions and statements to create a program.
• Written in low-level or high-level languages.
• Translated to machine language (binary) using a language translator.

Language Translators

• Assembler: Translates programs from assembly language to low-level language.
• Interpreter: Translates statements one at a time, executing immediately. (Examples: JavaScript, Python, Ruby).
• Compiler: Translates all statements at once, providing all error messages (diagnostics) at once. (Examples: C, C++, Java).

Low-Level vs High-Level Language

• Low-level: Instructions directly tied to one type of computer. Often cryptic and not human-readable. (Examples: machine language, assembly language).
• High-level: Uses English-like instructions; can run on various computer types. (Examples: Visual Basic, C, C++, Java). High-level languages are typically easier for humans to read and write.

Machine Language

• All data within a computer is represented using microscopic electronic switches that are either ON (represented by 1) or OFF (represented by 0).
• Writing in machine language is tedious.
• Machine language is the most basic form of computer instructions.

Assembly Language

• A programming language with symbolic names for opcodes and decimals/labels for memory addresses.
• Assembly language programs must be translated into machine instructions using an assembler.

Programming Paradigm

• A style or approach to programming problem-solving using a programming language.
• Uses available tools and techniques.
• Classifies programming languages based on features.

Procedure-Oriented Program

• The programmer focuses on the major tasks (steps) in a program, instructing the computer from start to completion.
• Example: In a payroll program, the steps may involve inputting employee data, calculating pay, and outputting a paycheck.

Object-Oriented Program

• The programmer focuses on objects (e.g., check boxes and buttons) used to accomplish the program's goal.
• Objects may take many forms.
• Example: A Windows-based program might use objects such as checkboxes, listboxes, and buttons to interact with the user.

Program Development

• Program Development Life Cycle: A set of steps or phases to create a program using a programming language. Essential steps in this process ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Steps in Program Development: Requirement Analysis, System Design, Coding or Writing the Program, Testing and Debugging, Documentation and Maintenance

Requirement Analysis

• Requirement Analysis: A description of what a system should do.
• Steps in Problem Analysis: Defining the problem and users, desired outputs, required input to achieve outputs, processes involved, feasibility of implementation, and documenting the analysis.

System Design

• Program Design: Describes the algorithms (step-by-step instructions).
• Algorithm: A step-by-step sequence of instructions describing how data is processed.
• Methods: Pseudocode (normal language statements), or flowcharts (visual diagrams) are used to formulate algorithms.
• Pseudocode and flowchart examples provided in the slides

Coding

• The actual writing of the program, based on design specifications.
• Steps involved: Selecting the appropriate programming language and following the language's syntax (rules).

Testing and Debugging

• Program testing involves running various tests (e.g., desk-checking, alpha testing, running real data) to verify functionality and accuracy.
• Steps: Desk-checking, program debugging, running real data. Methods are described in the slides, which include identifying and removing errors.
• Types of Errors: Syntax errors, runtime errors, and logical errors.

Documentation and Maintenance

• Documentation is a detailed description of the program and its use, including instructions for maintenance.
• Maintenance is any activity (e.g. updates, repairs, improving the program) to keep the program error-free, updated, and functioning properly.

Test your knowledge on the fundamentals of computer programming in this Module 1 quiz. You'll explore important concepts such as programming languages, program development steps, and the differences between low-level and high-level programming. Prepare to dive into the world of coding and its essential terms.