Introduction to Computer Science

• Computer science is the study of computation and information.
• Computer science deals with the theory, design, development, and application of computer systems.
• Computer science encompasses a wide range of sub-fields.
  • Theoretical computer science
  • Algorithms and data structures
  • Programming languages
  • Computer architecture
  • Operating systems
  • Computer networks
  • Databases
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Software engineering
  • Computer graphics

Theoretical Computer Science

• Theoretical computer science explores the fundamental mathematical properties of computation.
• Theoretical computer science includes:
  • Automata theory: the study of abstract machines and their computational power
  • Computability theory: determining what problems can be solved by algorithms
  • Complexity theory: classifying problems based on how much time or space they require to solve
  • Information theory: quantifying, storing, and communicating information

Algorithms and Data Structures

• Algorithms are step-by-step procedures for solving problems.
• Data structures are ways of organizing and storing data to facilitate efficient access and modification.
• Key concepts include:
  • Algorithm design: developing efficient and effective algorithms
  • Algorithm analysis: determining the time and space complexity of algorithms
  • Common data structures: arrays, linked lists, trees, graphs, hash tables

Programming Languages

• Programming languages are formal languages used to instruct computers to perform tasks.
• Key aspects encompass:
  • Syntax: the rules governing the structure of the language
  • Semantics: the meaning of the language constructs
  • Paradigms: styles of programming, such as imperative, object-oriented, functional, and logical
• Examples of well-known languages include: Python, Java, C++, JavaScript

Computer Architecture

• Computer architecture deals with the design and organization of computer hardware components.
• Computer architecture's components include:
  • CPU design: designing the central processing unit, which executes instructions
  • Memory systems: organizing and managing computer memory
  • Input/output: managing communication between the computer and external devices
  • Parallel processing: designing systems with multiple processors to improve performance

Operating Systems

• Operating systems manage computer hardware and software resources and provide common services for computer programs.
• Key OS functions includes:
  • Process management: creating, scheduling, and terminating processes
  • Memory management: allocating and managing computer memory
  • File systems: organizing and storing files
  • Input/output management: managing communication with peripherals

Computer Networks

• Computer networks enable communication and resource sharing between computers.
• Important concepts include:
  • Network protocols: rules governing communication between devices, examples include TCP/IP and HTTP
  • Network topologies: physical or logical arrangement of network nodes, examples include star, bus, and ring
  • Network security: protecting networks from unauthorized access and attacks

Databases

• Databases are organized collections of data, typically stored and accessed electronically.
• Key aspects involve:
  • Data modeling: designing the structure of the database, examples include relational model and NoSQL
  • Database management systems (DBMS): software for creating, managing, and accessing databases
  • Query languages: languages for retrieving and manipulating data in databases, SQL is an example

Artificial Intelligence

• Artificial intelligence (AI) is the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
• AI includes:
  • Machine learning: training computers to learn from data without explicit programming
  • Natural language processing: enabling computers to understand and process human language
  • Computer vision: enabling computers to "see" and interpret images
  • Robotics: designing and building robots that can perform tasks autonomously

Software Engineering

• Software engineering is the systematic approach to the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software.
• Key aspects include:
  • Requirements analysis: gathering and documenting the needs of stakeholders
  • Software design: creating a blueprint for the software system
  • Software testing: verifying that the software meets the requirements and works correctly
  • Software maintenance: modifying the software after delivery to correct defects, improve performance, or adapt to changing needs

Computer Graphics

• Computer graphics deals with generating and manipulating images using computers.
• Computer graphics encompasses:
  • 3D modeling: creating digital representations of objects
  • Rendering: generating images from 3D models
  • Animation: creating the illusion of movement in images
  • Image processing: manipulating and analyzing images