Animated Problem Solving: An Introduction to Program Design Using Video Game Development

This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to systematic problem solving and reasoning using type-driven design. It emphasizes two problem-solving techniques: divide and conquer and iterative refinement, and teaches readers how to design and implement a multiplayer video game. By the end of the book, readers will have learned about programming and applied new knowledge to develop increasingly better versions of the video game.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 688 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive textbook delves into the realm of systematic problem solving and reasoning, employing a type-driven design approach. It emphasizes two fundamental problem-solving techniques: divide and conquer and iterative refinement. Divide and conquer involves breaking down a complex problem into smaller, more manageable sub-problems, which are then solved individually. These solutions are subsequently combined to form the solution to the original problem. Iterative refinement, on the other hand, entails gradually improving a solution to a problem through multiple iterations, akin to the refinement process in writing an essay.

Mastering these techniques is crucial for developing excellent problem-solving skills and proficiency in programming. The book is organized into five parts, each serving a specific purpose. Part I provides a solid foundation, covering the basics of writing expressions, decision-making, and functions, which form the basis for problem-solving. Part II introduces the concept of compound data of finite size, including arrays, lists, and binary trees. It also introduces structural recursion, a powerful data-processing strategy that employs divide and conquer to handle data of varying sizes.

Part III extends the discussion to compound data of arbitrary size, such as intervals, natural numbers, and binary trees. It introduces the concept of generic programming, which abstracts away from the specific type of data being processed, enabling the development of reusable code. This leads to the realization that functions are data and, more surprisingly, that data can be viewed as functions, paving the way for object-oriented programming.

Part IV delves into abstraction, emphasizing the elimination of repetitions in solutions to problems. It introduces the concept of generic programming, which abstracts away from the specific type of data being processed, enabling the development of reusable code. This leads to the realization that functions are data and, more surprisingly, that data can be viewed as functions, paving the way for object-oriented programming.

Part V introduces distributed programming, which involves utilizing multiple computers to solve a problem. It discusses the advantages of parallel processing and distributed computing and provides practical examples of implementing multiplayer video games using this approach.

Throughout the book, practical examples and exercises are provided to reinforce the concepts and techniques discussed. By the end of the textbook, readers will have gained the skills and knowledge necessary to design and implement a multiplayer video game, showcasing their understanding of systematic problem solving and reasoning. This book serves as a valuable resource for students, professionals, and anyone interested in enhancing their problem-solving abilities and advancing their programming skills.

Weight: 1068g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030850937
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022