Computational Thinking: A Perspective on Computer Science

This textbook is designed for undergraduate students in computer science, focusing on elementary knowledge and thinking models. It introduces computer science from a computational thinking perspective, with chapters on logic thinking, algorithmic thinking, systems thinking, and network thinking. It also covers societal impact and responsible computing material, encouraging active, hands-on learning with Bloom's taxonomy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 319 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive textbook serves as a foundational resource for introductory computer science courses, catering to undergraduate students from diverse disciplines. Designed as a self-contained text with no prior prerequisites, it emphasizes fundamental knowledge and computational thinking models. Extensively tested in university classrooms for over six years, this textbook has also been utilized in summer schools to train university and high-school teachers in teaching introductory computer science courses through computational thinking methodologies.

From a computational thinking lens, this book delves into the realm of computer science, highlighting its distinctive characteristics. Computer science is characterized by three external factors and eight internal elements, including automatic execution, bit-accuracy, and abstraction. The book is organized into chapters covering logic thinking, algorithmic thinking, systems thinking, and network thinking. Additionally, it addresses societal implications and responsible computing topics, encompassing the ICT industry, digital economy, the wonders of exponentiation, cyberspace, and ethical guidelines for independent work.

The textbook's structured approach fosters active, hands-on learning through the application of Bloom's taxonomy. It presents over 200 problems of varying difficulty, encouraging students to develop computational solutions through thought experiments, programming, and written methods. With only 300 lines of code required to solve most programming problems, this textbook offers a concise and accessible entry point into the world of computer science.

By providing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary introduction to computer science, this textbook equips students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to navigate the digital age. Its emphasis on computational thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration prepares students for a range of careers in technology and beyond. Whether you are a student seeking to explore the foundations of computer science or a teacher looking to enhance your teaching approach, this textbook is an invaluable resource for advancing your understanding and expertise in the field.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811638503
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021