brief introduction to computer programming

“Computers never do what you want them to do; they only do what you tell them to do!”

As a starting point for this topic some words were given that needed to be defined in terms of computing. so here is a small vocabulary list consisting of words that will no doubt be used throughout this topic.

Algorithms: A process or set of rules to be followed via calculations or other problem solving procedures, especially by a computer.

Pseudocode: A set of statements in English that map out the program plan before the programming process starts.

Machine Language: a specific set of binary codes that correspond to actions to be taken by the microprocessor of a machine such as a computer.

High Level Computer Language: A programming language that allows users/programmers to write programs that is more or less independent of a particular type of computer. Such languages are thought to be high level as they are closer to human languages and much further away from machine languages, then most programming languages.

Flowchart: a diagram of the sequence of operations in a computer program or an accounting system.

Sequence: A particular order in which related event, movements, or things follow each other

Selection: data highlighted on a computer screen that is a target for various manipulations.

Repetition: a loop/the recurrence of an action, word or event.


Examples of some algorithms:

Opening a door and entering a room

1.      Walk to the door

2.      Place hand on door handle and turn

3.      If door is locked, retrieve the key

4.      Place the key in the key hole and turn

5.      When door is open step into the room

Negotiating traffic lights as you drive down a street.

1.     First it is important to note that there are three different traffic light colours. Green (which means the driver can continue driving/go), red (which indicates that the driver must stop, so that others may continue/go) and yellow/orange (which depicts that the lights are soon to change to red, preparing drivers to slow down so that they may be able to stop).

2.     When driving and the light is green continue driving at the current speed.

3.     When driving and the light changes to yellow, slow down and prepare to stop just in case the light turns red.

4.     When driving and the light turns red stop at the line marked on the road in front/near the traffic lights.