Published by Pearson (February 23, 2011) © 2012
A core or supplementary text for one-semester, freshman/sophomore-level introductory courses taken by programming majors in Problem Solving for Programmers, Problem Solving for Applications, any Computer Language Course, or Introduction to Programming.
Revised to reflect the most current issues in the programming industry, this widely adopted text emphasizes that problem solving is the same in all computer languages, regardless of syntax. Sprankle and Hubbard use a generic, non-language-specific approach to present the tools and concepts required when using any programming language to develop computer applications. Designed for students with little or no computer experience — but useful to programmers at any level — the text provides step-by-step progression and consistent in-depth coverage of topics, with detailed explanations and many illustrations.
Instructor Supplements (see resources tab):
Instructor Manual with Solutions and Test Bank
Lecture Power Point Slides
Go to: www.prenhall.com/sprankle
• A generic, non-language-specific approach presents the tools and concepts required when using any programming language to develop computer applications.
– Shows how problem solving is the same in all languages.
– Enables students to concentrate on problem solving (rather than syntax) regardless of the language they use, and to use the text as a reference in future courses.
• Broad coverage ranges from the basics of mathematical functions and operators to the design and use of such techniques as code, arrays, pointers, other data structures, database concepts, and object- oriented programming concepts.
• Problem-solving tools are used to discuss the problem analysis chart, interactivity (structure) chart, IPO chart, the coupling diagram, algorithms, flowcharts, and tools to help with the development of object oriented programming solutions.
– Explains and demonstrates these tools extensively using typical problems found in computer language textbooks.
• Structured programming techniques include sequential, decision, loop, and case logic structures.
– Introduces students to the correct use of modules, parameters, and variable names that allow easier development, as well as easier maintenance, of a program.
• A full chapter on variables, constants, data types, functions, operators, equations, and expressions gives students a solid foundation in the concepts that are important to know before starting to develop a program, and which make setting up the basic instructions much easier.
• Various types of data structures are explored, with full chapter coverage on arrays, stacks, linked lists, binary trees, and database.
– Prepares students to develop programs to handle almost any problem in today's market.
• Problem solving for applications details includes techniques for page layout, spreadsheets, database management systems, and document processing.
– Makes material more tangible and real-world for students, giving them hands-on practice with the types of applications they'll encounter on the job.
• “What's Wrong with This?” sections in problem sections challenge students to think critically and analytically to debug programs.
• “Putting It All Together sections” walk students through a complete solution for a given problem, using the concepts previously presented.
– In some cases, an earlier solution is updated to incorporate more sophisticated techniques.
– Ensures that students learn not only individual problem-solving techniques, but how to put them together into viable strategies for tackling specific kinds of problems/applications.
• Chapter Problems give students hands-on experience in solving problems that are typically found in computer language textbooks.
• Abundant pedagogical aids integrated throughout include chapter objectives, chapter summaries, key words, chapter exercises and problems, glossaries, and tables of flowcharting symbols and functions.
Maureen Sprankle is a Professor Emeritus at the College of the Redwoods, in Eureka, CA. She received her M.B.A. (emphasis in Computer Information Systems) and B.A. in Music from Humboldt State University, and her B.A. in Mathematics from Pepperdine University. In addition to teaching, Maureen has worked as a consultant in microcomputers for business and education, as a freelance Programmer/Analyst (business and scientific applications), and as a Scientific Programmer/Analyst Research Programmer in the space industry. After retiring from teaching, she and her husband of 43 years, Dr. Norman Sprankle, moved to the Oregon coast, where they both enjoy traveling, teaching, computers, the theater, and the out of doors. Her hobbies include music and reading.
Jim Hubbard is a software architect and the President of Healthware Solutions, LLC. Jim received his M.I.S. degree from Humboldt State University. He has held the position of CIO at Healthware Solutions, LLC. With 26 years of experience in the field of software development and implementation, Jim provides a valuable industry perspective to problem solving and programming.
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