Preface

Coverage and Scope

The authors and contributors consulted with other educators and industry professionals from a range of institutions and organizations in order to ensure that Introduction to Computer Science meets the diverse needs of both computer science majors and non-majors. The book is structured into five main parts, each focusing on critical areas of the discipline:

• Part 1: Problem Solving and Algorithms This section introduces students to the foundations of computer science, focusing on computational thinking, problem-solving techniques, and algorithm design. Topics include data structures, formal properties of algorithms, and algorithmic paradigms. Through practical examples and exercises, students will develop the skills needed to construct and analyze algorithms and understand their applications across various domains.
• Part 2: Realizations of Algorithms In this part, students explore how algorithms are realized in hardware and software, starting with low-level programming languages and moving into hardware design and computer systems organization. Students will learn about models of computation, machine-level representation, processor architectures, and memory hierarchy. This foundational understanding enables students to see the connections between abstract algorithms and their physical implementations.
• Part 3: Designing and Developing Software Solutions This section covers the principles of software development, high-level programming languages, and data management. Students will learn the fundamentals of software engineering and gain hands-on experience with both relational and non-relational database systems. Emphasis is placed on designing robust software solutions and managing complex data structures, ensuring students are well-prepared for future roles in software development and engineering.
• Part 4: Building Modern End-to-End Solutions to Business and Social Problems Students apply their knowledge to design and build web and cloud-native applications. This part includes examples of modern web architectures, responsive design techniques, and cloud-based solutions using PaaS and FaaS technologies. Additionally, students will explore the development of hybrid multi-cloud digital solutions, providing them with experience in addressing complex business and social challenges using modern computing technologies.
• Part 5: Human-Centered Responsible Computing The final section delves into the ethical and societal implications of computing. Topics include cybersecurity, governance of cyber resources, and responsible computing practices. Students will learn to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and governance while considering the broader impacts of technology on society.

Each core concept is designed to build on the previous one, ensuring a coherent learning experience that provides students with a clear view of the field. The book's approach enables students to not only understand the principles of computer science but also see how they can be applied to address practical, real-world problems.

Pedagogical Foundation and Features

The Introduction to Computer Science textbook is designed to engage students through a combination of practical, real-world applications and thought-provoking scenarios that promote critical thinking and a deeper understanding of core concepts. The pedagogical approach is centered on making computer science relevant and accessible for students from diverse backgrounds, whether they are pursuing a degree in computer science or exploring how computational thinking can be applied to their respective fields. To support this vision, the textbook incorporates several key features:

• Concepts in Practice features present how computer science concepts are applied in real-world contexts by both professionals and non-professionals. Each box profiles personas and practical applications that demonstrate how core topics, such as algorithms, data management, and software engineering, are utilized across various industries. The purpose is to inspire students—particularly non-majors—by showing them the value of computer science in solving everyday challenges and to foster a greater appreciation for the discipline.
• Global Issues in Technology features help students think globally about the societal impact of technology. These boxes highlight how technology affects communities and economies around the world and may introduce topics such as digital equity, environmental sustainability, and global data security. Students are encouraged to consider the broader implications of technological advancements and to think critically about their potential to drive positive change or create new challenges in global contexts.
• Industry Spotlight boxes focus on specific industry challenges and how technology progress or application can help solve them. Industry Spotlight features introduce students to various sectors—such as healthcare, finance, education, and law—providing a glimpse into how computer science can drive innovation and efficiency. By connecting theoretical concepts to industry-specific problems, these features encourage students to explore the wide-ranging applications of computer science and understand its value across different fields.
• Link to Learning features provide a very brief introduction to online resources—videos, interactives, collections, maps, and other engaging resources that are pertinent to students' exploration of the topic at hand.
• Technology in Everyday Life features connect computer science principles to students' personal experiences and the world around them. These boxes explore how technology intersects with daily life or current events, making computer science concepts more relatable and relevant. Some features may prompt students to think creatively and propose their own ideas for applying computer science solutions to familiar scenarios.
• Think It Through scenarios present students with thought-provoking dilemmas or complex problems related to the use of technology. Students are asked to reflect on ethical questions, problem-solving strategies, and real-world decision-making processes. These features emphasize that not all problems have straightforward answers and encourage students to weigh the pros and cons of different approaches. By navigating these scenarios, students learn to develop judgment skills that are crucial in business and technology environments.

Overall, these features are integrated throughout the material to foster active learning, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the practical applications of computer science. By connecting theory to practice and encouraging students to explore real-world issues, Introduction to Computer Science provides a meaningful and supportive learning experience that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in their academic and professional journeys.

Senior Contributing Author

Senior contributing author: Dr. Jean-Claude Franchitti

Dr. Jean-Claude Franchitti is a Clinical Associate Professor of Computer Science and the Associate Director of Graduate Studies for the CS Master's program in Information Systems at NYU Courant Institute. He earned his M.S. in Electrical Engineering (1985) and his M.S. and PhD. in Computer Science from the University of Colorado at Boulder (1988, 1993). He is the founder and CEO of Archemy, Inc., and has over 40 years of experience in a myriad of industries, and over 30 years of teaching and corporate training experience. He held executive positions in large US-based corporations and leading business technology consulting firms such as Computer Sciences Corporation. He has been involved in many large business technology strategy and modernization projects and has a proven record of delivering large scale business solutions. He was the original designer and developer of jcrew.com and the suite of products now known as IBM InfoSphere DataStage. He also created the Agile Enterprise Architecture Management (AEAM) methodology and a corresponding framework that are patented components of the Archemy business evolution platform.

Dr. Franchitti's teaching and research interests include machine learning, artificial intelligence, data management systems and software engineering with an emphasis on large-scale software architectures and business solutions. He has published articles in numerous refereed publications including the Proceedings of Third Int. Conf. on Cooperative Information Systems, Proceedings of the Sixth International Workshop on Persistent Object Systems, and the 16th International Conference on Software Engineering. Dr. Franchitti received an award for Outstanding Service from NYU's School of Continuing and Professional Studies.

Contributing Authors

Amal Alhosban, University of Michigan–Flint

Mark Buckler, Grand Canyon University

Joanna Gilberti, Archemy, Inc.

Scott Gray, Nashua Community College

Matthew Hertz, University at Buffalo

Andrew Hurd, Empire State University

Kevin Lin, University of Washington

Sai Mukkavilli, Georgia Southwestern State University

Phuc (Brian) Nguyen, UC Irvine

Shahab Tayeb, Fresno State

Zdeněk Troníček, Tarleton State University

Kevin Wortman, Cal State Fullerton

Mohamed Zahran, New York University

Reviewers

Reni Abraham, Houston Community College

Shakil Akhtar, Clayton State University

Kiavash Bahreini, Florida International University

Tammie Bolling, Pellissippi State Community College

Phillip Bradford, UConn

Quiana Bradshaw, Campbellsville University

Christopher Bunton, Austin Community College

Komal Chhibber, South Mountain Community College

Chen-Fu Chiang, SUNY Polytechnic Institute

Gabriel de la Cruz, North Idaho College

Gabriel Ferrer, Hendrix College

David Fogarty, New York University

Yuexing Hao, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Nazli Hardy, Millersville University

Angela Heath, Baptist Health System

Rania Hodhod, Columbus State University

Benita Hubbard, Southern New Hampshire University

Sumit Jha, Florida International University

Mohamed E. Khalefa, SUNY Old Westbury

Steven Ko, Simon Fraser University

Jessica Kong, University of Washington

Alex Krasnok, Florida International University

Blaise Liffick, Millersville University

Sue McCrory, Missouri State University

Morgan McKie, Florida International University

Sandeep Mitra, SUNY Brockport

Mourya Narasareddygari, Rider University

Saty Raghavachary, University of Southern California

Muhammad Rahman, Clayton State University

Amir Rahmati, Stony Brook University

Caryl Rahn, Florida International University

Jerry Reed, Valencia College

Jordan Ringenberg, University of Findlay

Eman Saleh, University of Georgia

Vincent Sanchez, Florida International University

John Schriner, Queensborough Community College

Tiffanie R. Smith, Lincoln University

Hann So, De Anza College

Jayesh Soni, Florida International University

Derrick Stevens, Mohawk Valley Community College

Kathleen Tamerlano, Cuyahoga Community College

Chintan Thakkar, Rasmussen University

Jingnan Xie, Millersville University

Ning Xie, Florida International University