Learning Computer Programming Terminology

Computer programmers use a range of terminologies that make sense only to them and to their colleagues. For other people who are not very adept with computers and programming, those words either mean something else or don't mean anything at all. Here's an overview of the ten most commonly used and confused computer programming terminologies that everybody should know, explained in layman's terms:

1. 1GL
1GL means First Generation Programming Language. It is actually a machine level programming language that is written in one's and zero's. These are the programs that can be understood by the computer's central processing unit directly. There's no need to run it into a compiler or any other programming software. There are also second, third, up to fourth generation computer programming language.

2. Abandon ware
Abandon ware are software that are not being used, supported, or sold by its respective publisher any longer. These types of software cannot be resold or redistributed to end-users unless otherwise given away as a freeware.

3. ActiveX
ActiveX are programs using the Visual Basic programming language. It is basically created for active contents of the software that are commonly used by other applications that are already installed or existing on the computer. Sometimes, it even shares the ones used by the operating system itself. ActiveX is the one responsible for the interactive features of web-based programs.

4. Beta Version
When a software, a website, or any application is tagged as a beta release or beta version, it means that that version is its first ever launch. It is the program that incorporates the very basic features and requirements of the software. At that point, the software is not yet tested for bugs. The beta version of the software is normally its test run.

5. DirectX
DirectX is a program provided by Microsoft. It is a collection of different multimedia applications and programming interfaces. It is built into the Windows operating system. DirectX is mostly used in gaming applications.

6. Emulation
Emulation is the term given to the capacity of a certain program to imitate another device or program. There are different degrees of emulation. Emulators are usually created for arcade game devices so it can be played on a desktop computer.

7. Firmware
Firmware refers to the software that is implanted in a device or hardware. The firmware usually contains a set of protocols that the hardware has to run so it would work smoothly with the other devices that it is attached to.

8. HTML
HTML is hypertext markup language. It is the language used by web pages. It is a programming language that has a way to describe the different parts of the text created. It can denote text used as paragraphs, text, headings, and lists.

9. Java
Java is an object oriented programming language. Sun Microsystems developed the software and it can be said that it resembles the C++ program. However, it was structured to avoid the flaws of the latter. This is widely used in the world wide web as well.

10. Linux
Linux is an example of operating software in the likes of Windows and Mac Os. But unlike these two, Linux is a free open source program. Anybody can use the software for redistribution and modification.

These are just some of the computer programming terminologies you should know so that the next time you come across them, you won't be guessing what they means. Programming can be a complex task but if you learn the basic things like terminologies, you will surely find the subject interesting.

Where to Get Computer Programming Training

Computer programmers are professionals who are in demand these days. This is because of the fact that everything is on the stage of being converted into digital. Not too soon, there won't be analog systems anymore. All systems would be created according to the digital generation.

Right now, there are different schools and institutions providing training for computer programming. You can enroll to either offline or online schools, depending upon your time availability. For those who recently get off from high school and would like to pursue a career in computer programming, they can inquire from the different schools, colleges, and universities around them. These institutions are surely offering programming courses.

However, for those who are currently holding down a job and would just like to learn computer programming as a hobby, they can enroll in an online school that follows a distance education setup. They are free to catch up on their lessons during their free time, whenever they are, provided they have a laptop with an internet access.

Here are the different schools where you can take training courses on computer programming:

1. Collins College
Collins College is located in Arizona. It is previously known as the Al Collins Graphic Design School. Right now, the school follows emphasized programs for visual communications through graphic design, computer animation, and digital video. They also offer e-commerce programming.

2. Brown College
Brow College's main institution is in Minnesota. However, they are accepting enrollees from various locations. They are implementing quality programs in computer programming. The school employs competent faculty members that implement them.

3. International Academy of Design and Technology
This career-oriented institution is dedicated in providing academic excellence to their students. Computer programming is not a very easy course. But this school is one of the few that tries to find a way to make the learning process more fun and rewarding.

4. American Inter Continental University
The school offers different degrees related to business, industrial, and government career paths. And all of their graduates have adequate computer programming units to back them up. There are also Master's Degree and Associate's Degree programs being offered, on top of the school's Bachelor's Degrees.

5. ITT Technical Inst
If you want true-blue computer programming training, you have to go to the authority. The ITT Tech Inst is a special educational institution that focuses on information technology courses. The schools offers both Bachelor's and Associate's degree.

6. Tech Skills
If you want hands-on computer programming and information technology courses, you should go to Tech Skills. They are offering different programs related to computers and technology. Their programs include training and certification for Oracle, Microsoft, A+, Cisco, and a whole lot more.

7. Unitek
Unitek is the premier provider of certificate courses for both CISCO and Microsoft. They are also offering training courses for these two. They can provide assessment testing for anybody situated across the country. They have prepared a skills test online for aspiring students who would want to join their boot camp.

8. Kaplan University
Kaplan University is an online school that offers classes around the clock. This is one of the best schools offering programming courses for both teens and adults. Their curriculum is focused on the individualized career path of their students.

These are the eight different computer programming training centers you can check out. Look for the school that is equipped to improve your skills and abilities the most. This way, you can make your future look a lot brighter.

How To Implement Credit Card Computer Programming

There are different types and applications of computer programming. Computer programming is very essential anywhere there's a computer or a digital device. Programs are the primary requirement before a system or device could run. And in this digital age, they are required by almost all applications, including web-based ones.

Credit card computer programming is one of the most vital forms of programming these days. This is precisely what makes online banking and e-commerce possible. With these sets of programs, people can freely buy things over the internet. And merchants can also get their earning easily from the issuing banks of the credit cards used to pay them.

The main requirement of credit card computer programming is security. These programs should be created with multiple layers of security so as to protect the interests of both the online seller and the buyer. Credit card programming requires a series of intricate commands and test runs just to avoid the loopholes in the programming.

Adequate security is also necessary so that identity theft and other illegal acts are not committed over the internet. The main reason why identity theft is rampant over the internet is because there are not sufficient security measures that both online sellers and buyers follows. It is really the task of credit card computer programmers to make indestructible security programs for their clients.

Identity theft is the act of stealing one's sensitive financial information such as credit card number, social security number, name, address, and age. All of these are required before an online transaction could push through. But because of the improving abilities of hackers and fraudulent individuals, they somehow manage to find ways on how squeeze out the information from unsuspecting victims. They don't run out of creative ways of enticing people to freely give out the information they need.

A website that uses a faulty credit card computer programming protocol is exposed to the risks associated with refunds, fines, and even legal costs. But more than that, the website's customers will be very irritated with their experience arising from the transaction with the website. Worse, they could even suspect that the website is part of a big scam operating in the underworld of the internet. This is where things could get nasty with legal fees arising from suits filed by the affected consumers.

Therefore, it is very important for small and medium-scale internet business owners to avail of credit card computer programming services only from reputable sources. For all they know, the program that they are using are created with a backdoor that only the programmers know about. If you can request for a customized programming complete with documentation and a legal contract, it is highly recommended that they avail of that.

But if that seems a little too expensive, they can definitely try one of the many third party payment processors in operation today. This is a good alternative to buying or creating a special software for your e-commerce website. Examples of a third party payment processor are PayPal, Google Checkout, FirePay, and others. These companies are offering the processing of payments in cash, checks, and credit cards. However, these companies charge a certain amount or a percentage of the payment received.

This deal should be just fine, because they normally assume all responsibility when it comes to the proper handling or credit card charge requests. And for them to do it right, they ensure their clients that they have a very complex credit card computer programming system in place.

Looking Adeptly at Programming Function Examples

Before looking at the different examples of programming functions, it is best to understand the purpose and definition of function.  A function is the means by which someone who uses a program can execute a code block which has two purposes: to finish a certain task and to return values. Although functions are expected to return a certain value, it is not always that values are returned.

A function is also considered as a procedure in some programming languages.  On the other hand, functions are commonly known as any term that is being used in referring to names of code blocks.  Take note that it is the C programming language which solely uses the keyword function.  Functions accept restrictions, they also return values, and they are maintained on a separate location from the code of primary program.  The C language uses main function as the point of entry to certain programs.

Functions can show up in a single or two locations.  This is dependent on whether the function is single line or multi-line.  Having a single line function means a value is returned after the performances of work (in a single line) while the multi-line function is broadened over different lines.

Perhaps, the most common example of a programming function is a mathematical function.  Log and tan are examples of mathematical functions.  The other two known functions are string functions and the date functions.

Simply defined, a programming function allows you to assign certain values where results can be calculated in a matter of seconds while saving yourself from the task of doing the computations manually.

On the declaration or calling of a function which has two or more parameters, the use of comma is needed to separate the different parameters.  One function declaration could resemble this:

function print_two_strings($var1, $var2)
{
echo $var1;
echo "\n";
echo $var2;
return NULL;
}

For these functions to be called, a value must be assigned to the parameters, hence:

Function call:

Print two strings (“hi”, “guys”);

The output should appear as:

hi
guys

One other good way to have active parameters is the use of PHP’s integral functions such as func get args, func get arg, and func num args functions.  These functions are able to calculate arithmetic means of any values that are placed onto them and an output is derived.  An example:

mean(35, 43, 3);

The output is then:

Mean: 27

A programming function is usually best when it returns some value or information.  Functions do calculations, indeed, but it is also useful in indicating any errors that are encountered any function.  To return an information from functions, you can use return () statement on the specified function.  

An example of script for PHP is the following:

function add_numbers($var1 = 0, $var2 = 0, $var3 = 0)
{
  $var4 = $var1 + $var2 + $var3;
  return $var4;
}

$sum = add_numbers(2,4,6)
echo “The result of 2+4+6 is {$sum}
?>

The result is:

The result of 2+4+6 is 12.

Take note that {} statement ended the course of the function.  If multiple variables are to be returned, a group of variables should be returned, not a single variable:  An example:


function maths ($input1, $input2) {
  $total = ($input1 + $input2);
  $difference = ($input1 - $input2);
  $ret = array("tot"=>$total, "diff"=>$difference);
  return $ret;
}


There are also ways of accessing functions without having to type a function name or {} syntax.  This can be done in two ways: the call_user_func or the call_user_func_array.  One complex example is the following:


$one = "One";
$two = "Two";
$three = "Three";
$callback_func = "my_function";
$result = call_user_func_array($callback_func,array($one,$two,$three));
echo $result;


These equations may show as a bunch of gibberish letters and numbers but these symbols actually account to make a certain task easier.  And that, for us, is the most important thing.

Computer Programming Functions: Get to Know What They Are

When it comes to computer programming vocabulary, there are so many terminologies that people who do not have enough know-how tend to become lost and confused.  One term could be translated into so many different names in different languages.  For example, the following words are quite similar: Functions, Programs, Subroutines, Procedures, Subprograms, or Subqueries.  The only question now is which of these terms could stand on their own.

Theoretically speaking, computer programming avoids the duplication of any code in multiple spaces.  For example, one institution utilizing the programs could have some libraries of different thousands or even more programs with billions of basic code lines.  With such intricate case, duplication could still be avoided.  Let us say that an error message occurs because the collection now needs to have an additional ‘member’.

A good example is the addition of another global currency called the Euro.  If each and every program will be told to update itself because of this new addition, it could be complex.  But with sub-programs or functions specifically designed to handle diverse situations, then the only function that would take care of the change would be the one assigned to handle such a scenario.

In the same way that we write new programs, many of the components that it will need are already in existence (e.g. accessing a certain file to dig up a certain data, computing inventories on hand).  In cases such as this, a good alternative to writing different source code lines to work on the new function (and eventually replication of the code onto numerous other programs), the sub-program is accessed to work on the specified function.

In a handful of programming languages, there are certain parameters that are being passed from a specific program name to the program that is being called to do a task.  A secondary program usually makes the values altered and then the control is brought back to the main program.  These actions could be levels deeper.  The various programs that are being used to call each other are written in so many varying languages.  The reasons behind this are:   to have a reasonable controllable function pieces and having various languages means being better able to suit different function types.

To further define the uses of programming functions, a function may appear in two different locations or even a single location.  This depends on whether it is multi-line or single-line function.  A function that is single line is one that gives back a value after performing tasks (all of this in a single line).  The multi-line function, however, is stretched on many different lines.

A single line function could show in a code block all because it only responds when called by a certain name.  The multi-line function does otherwise.  If it is a multi-line function that is being defined in a block of code, then the statements that follow the definition are done in a non-sequential manner.

In its simplicity, functions are code blocks that can be reusable.  These code blocks often return single values (sometimes they don’t’).  Common examples of these code blocks are Mathematical functions (e.g. tan or log), date functions (figures between two dates), or string functions (looking for incidents of 1 string located within another string).  Functions are also kept separately from the primary program code.  A lot of programming language has specific functions which are delegated as entry points to a certain program.

Knowing what functions are in computer programming could take sometime to non-computer savvy individuals.  But the basics are all here.  Looking at the many complex things that functions do, you get to appreciate the things that the computer does for you each day, don’t you?

The Future of Computer Programming

When it comes to the world of computer programming, it would be safe to say that the future is bright.  And why is that so?  Gone are the days when only the rich and powerful have the tools to educate themselves.  Nowadays, a single household possesses at least one computer.  There are a lot of brilliant minds out there who are constantly on their toes to bring about the latest developments in computer programming.

To make their dream a reality, it is necessary to begin where all computer programmers begin—at grade school.  Computer programming is now being introduced to the youngest minds.  Educational materials that are targeting languages in programming and also development tools are now being introduced in most schools’ curriculums.

But this is still an ongoing vision.  Somewhere in the near future, computer programming (not just computer usage) will be just another ordinary subject such as writing, reading or arithmetic. A study shows that this vision is slowly unfolding as teenagers are responding positively to programming exercises and are even able to control several virtual worlds in just a few days.

Mass computer programming literacy is a work in progress.  When even the most simple citizen is able to explain the designs of software with ease, then creativity will abound and so with productivity.  But what is computer programming in the future?  Is it more on art or engineering?  Or both?

One renowned computer architect named Gordon Morrison states that computer programming is recently in a form of art.  When this is so, it means that the current knowledge in programming is disorganized and changeable.  He proposes further that in changing programming into engineering (which is a more precise form) then the future of programming will become more stable.

Perhaps, one good way to predict the future of programming is by looking at the available jobs for computer programmers these days.  Consider these career options:  a single system programmer is able to install and maintain mainframe ops systems, management software for databases, and also networks for communications.  They can also become compilers or utility programmers.  

Another good way to foretell what is in store for computer programming is to look at the television and some science fiction films that are being produced lately.  In the past, the TV series called The New Adventures of Wonder Woman showed talking computers and robots which were causes of awe.  Today, those are not impossibilities.

The use of hardware has progressed tremendously over the past years and software development is tailing behind.  Software processes are still on the if-and-then phase and users are wondering whether this will really change.  Although there are predictions that programming languages would soon be on its fifth generation (where the recent languages would become obsolete), still, this visualization still hasn’t pushed through.  Which leads others to ask, has software development reached its peak?  Will there be no more developments?  Is this as far as it could go?  

Sure, there are modernizations here and there when it comes to new languages but they remain at a certain phase. It doesn’t go a notch higher.  Perhaps, software would be the technological limit that would cap computer programming advancement.  But only perhaps.


There are always minds out there that constantly grind to provide the latest in programming innovation.  We can only watch and predict for now.  And yes, we could only wonder.

Computer Programming and Its Rich History

If it’s the history of programming that has to be retold, then it is safe to begin an account with the difference engine of Charles Babbage way back in 1822.  Even from the time when computers were so simple, they still needed to have instructions so that they will be able to perform tasks that are inputted to them.  This set of instructions is what is known today as computer programming.

During the difference engine’s era, the gears needed to be changed manually which would then result into the calculations being made.  All of that was changed when signals of electricity replaced physical motion with the US Government’s 1942 machine named ENIAC.  The concept of accepting programming was also followed by this machine.  

To make programming faster, two vital concepts which directly influenced programming languages were developed in 1945 by John Von Neumann, who was then with the Institute for Advanced Study.  The first concept was known as the shared-program method.  This concept dictated that the hardware had to be non-complex and need not be hand-wired for every program.  Intricate instructions were used to control this type of hardware which made reprogramming quicker.

The second concept called the ‘conditional control transfer’ gave birth to code blocks which can be used even in different orders or the so-called subroutines.  The next part of the concept was logical branching.  With this, the concept of having code blocks that can be used and reused was born.

By 1949, the Short Code language came out.  It became the mother of electronic device computer language.  With this language, the programmer was required to use 0’s and 1’s instead of the usual statements.  1951 marked the appearance of compiler named A-0 by Grace Hopper.  This program translated all the 0’s and 1’s for the computer.  This gave way to much quicker programming.

FORTRAN (FORmula TRANslating System) was introduced in 1957 which was also the first key language.  It was designed for IBM for scientific computation.  This language included the GOTO, DO and IF statements.  FORTRAN’s forte was not business computing, though.  It was a good program for number handling but not for business computations.

COBOL was then developed in 1959.  It was designed as a businessman’s language.  The COBOL’s program was comparable to an essay where there are 4-5 sections comprising a major whole.  This made it easier to study.

The LISP language (developed for artificial intelligence study) also known as the Cambridge Polish was developed in 1958 by John McCarthy.  This programming language is highly abstract and specific that is why it is still being used today.  The LISP can store lists and modify them on its own.

In that same year, the Algol language was produced.  This became the mother of the Pascal language, C and C++, and also Java.  Algol also had the first proper grammar called the Backus-Naar form or BNF.  Algol 68, which was the next version, was a harder version to use.  Due to this difficulty, Pascal came into existence.

Niklaus Wirth introduced the Pascal language in 1968.  It was a necessary means of teaching then. It was a combination of the following languages: ALGOL, FORTRAN and COBOL.  It was also Pascal that improved the pointer data form.  Its downfall was caused by its lack of variable groups.  Modula-2 then appeared but C was already popular among many users.

C by Dennis Ritchie (1972, used by Unix) was comparable to Pascal but its precursors were the B and BCPL.  It is also being used in Windows, Linux and MacOS.  OOP (Object Oriented Programming) was developed in 1970’s until the 80’s.  This developed into the C++ language in 1983.  This language can manipulate many tasks all at the same time.  This is also the chosen language courses in AP Computer Science.  In 1987, Perl (Practical Extraction and Reporting Language) was developed.

Java soon followed in 1994.  It has yet many goals to reach especially with its slow-running programs.  But there are high hopes that a lot is in store in the future for this language. Microsoft has also developed VB or Visual Basic which uses widgets and these are now widely used.

The future holds many more developments for computer programming.  It may have started on a crude method but looking at the languages in use today, there were so many developments that we can only wonder what ‘impossibilities’ could be made possible very soon.

Why Hardware Development Could Mean the Future of Computer Programming

Computer programming is also known as software program or sometimes it is simply called ‘program’.  Whatever name it’s called, its purpose is to provide instructions to a computer machine.  If there is one thing that a computer needs to be able to function (aside from electricity, of course!), it would be computer programs.  The executor of the instructions is the central processor.

Computer programming is categorized into two functional lines which are the application and system software.  And when it comes to working on these matters, the experts are the so-called computer programmers or software developers.

But where there is software, there should also exist the hardware.  Generally speaking, hardware devices are any physical things that are being used in computer manipulation.  Examples are circuit boards, keyboards and processors.  The development of hardware plays a major role on the advancement of computer programming.  

This is because most computer programs are embedded in hardware.  This means that some programs that are stored in the computer can be accessed by an initial program that is stored in its ROM for booting.  The process of booting is to be able to recognize and also initialize all system features.

After the initialization process, the primary program of the computer would load the operating system which would set the program counters to initiate usual operations.  Totally self-sufficient, a hardware device could have some embedded firmware in controlling its operation.

Nowadays, there are a number of hardware development tools in the market.  Along with some software development kits are the hardware development tools that are designed to allow users to have control on design flow processes. There are many different types to choose from.  There are development boards for hardware that are used in assisting designers for systems and software to validate designs.  For example, there are tools that are used in SoC prototypes, or there are tools that combine several device features such as Flash programmer or Memory emulator.  

Going back to the basics, there are numerous computer programs that would run concurrently on just one computer.  This process is called multitasking.  And multitasking can run on either software or hardware systems.

Operating systems that are modern are able to run several programs through the so-called process scheduling—this is software system that switches the central processing unit amongst processes.  By doing this, users are able to interact with every single program while it is being run.  As to hardware, modern multiprocessors or computers that are equipped with multicore processor might run several programs.

‘Heard of the term open source hardware?  There is currently no real definition of this term but this is generally understood as open source software usage alongside hardware.  Also, this is the free discharge of information on the hardware (release on schematics, size, design and other information).  This is the latest in open source hardware information and logic design sharing is a known open source hardware form.

Designers of open hardware often meet to discuss design problems and their corresponding solutions; they also assist each other in looking for parts; they also meet to converse about recent developments in their works.

Since it is believed that the development of software is quite limited (and might even have reached its peak), the focus on progression is now on hardware development.  With the many hardware development tools in the market nowadays, the world could look forward to more innovations in the not-so-distant future…or maybe even tomorrow.

Information on Computer Programming

Many of today’s companies, businesses, and organizations depend largely on computers and computer software. Nearly all our business and organizational processes, from accounting to auditing, editing to writing, and communications to schedule organizing, all work best with the help of computers. There are many different programs that are associated with all these processes, and they deal with helping computer users make spreadsheets, tally earnings, check for grammatical or spelling errors in a document, and organize a person’s schedule. These computer programs are made by, and are constantly updated by computer programmers.



The process of computer programming is by no means easy. It starts with developing a program: here, computer programmers will often work with marketers or even sociologists or social psychologists. Together, this team, along with many other members, will determine what computer programs a market might need in order to function better, whether in the workplace or at home. The program’s features are developed, with the psychologists or market experts making suggestions, and computer programmers looking at the feasibility of these suggestions.



Once the program’s features have been determined, it’s time for the computer programmers to go to work. They will then start writing the program. This is done through the process of coding, wherein the programmer types in his or her special language, with the aim of giving rise to a program that will function in the way that it is desired. There are many different computer programming languages that are available: all of them have their own special features, and it is not unlikely for programmers to be adept in only one or two languages. This can make their work easier, because a computer programming language needs to be learned in enough depth to write it out and identify errors later.



Once the program has been written out, it has to be tested. This can be done, at the first level, by the computer programmer: the programmer will test the program on different operating systems, with different microprocessor speeds, and then, eventually, with beta users. In the past, software companies did not immediately release their software unless it was completely free from errors. Today, however, many errors might not be pinpointed early on, so beta versions are released, often with the request that users report any bugs so that they can be immediately fixed.



Once testing has revealed different kinds of program errors, the programmer can then debug the program or troubleshoot these errors. The errors will often arise from coding errors, and the computer programmer will often go back to the code and make the necessary corrections. If there are no coding errors and the program is still not functioning properly, then the programmer may have to modify the code or rewrite the program altogether.



A computer programmer is also in charge of updating a program and making sure that it fits a growing market’s needs. In this case, the computer programmer may have to check back with the marketing team and the social psychologist in order to find out if there are new things that the market might be interested in. better yet, the computer programmer can ask for suggestions from the market itself in order for the program to function better. For more information on computer programming, talk to a computer science expert, or read on computer programs and the process of coding.

The Benefits of Computer Programming

Many of the technologies we enjoy today are the result of computer programming.  Technologies that allow us to utilize and enjoy the Internet, desktop and laptop computers, mobile phones, video games, even those that run automated processes in homes, offices, banks and airports are available thanks to the genius of computer programming.  However, the uses of computer programming are not limited to these alone.  It actually has numerous benefits, such as:



It allows the programmer to have a better understanding of computers.

Computers are run by programs.  Without programs, computers are nothing but steel, plastic and alloy, essentially useless.  With a background knowledge in programming, it makes it easier to understand how computers work, which helps users view the equipment as more than a tool.



A better understanding of computers also allows users to determine the hows and whys of the system, which helps them become more effective in using the equipment.  Knowing how programs work makes it easy to understand their limitations, such as what they can and cannot do.  This helps users maintain realistic expectations about computers and learn how to maximize their equipment.



Programmers are able to create newer, more useful programs.

Computer programming is responsible for creating very valuable programs.  Operating systems, for example, the heart and soul of every computer, are made up of thousands, even millions of smaller programs.  If you have the right skills in computer programming, it will be easy to literally build a program from scratch and create a very useful tool that may be utilized in many different fields or industries.



Programmers are able to correct bugs in a program.

A background in computer programming will allow you to look at a problematic program and do more than just sit helpless.  If there is a glitch or bug in the program, it will be easy for a trained individual to look at the system, detect and locate the problem and make the necessary corrections.  Testing the program will then be easier once you understand what the defective issue was.



It allows programmers to improve an existing program.

Modifying a program is the realm of programmers who deal with specialist applications.  Computer programmers, especially those who have the training and experience, can take a look at an existing program and determine whether or not it has the necessary components to become a highly optimized program.  If it is not, they can modify the program and improve it, creating a newer, better version.  This is usually done if the program is problematic or if there are bugs in the system.



It provides programmers more creative ways to entertain.

There is a huge market for games and other forms of entertainment that computer programming can support.  New video games, mobile games, animations, graphics and file types are the results of programming.



Computer programming is an exciting career.

For individuals looking for a great future in information technology, computer programming is an excellent career path to follow.  According to the figures estimated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of computer science will continue to grow.  The need for programmers, for example, is predicted to increase by more than 70% by 2010, which is more than a 50% increase in the number currently required.



Computer programming and the future

One of the most exciting benefits of computer programming is that it offers us a glimpse of the future.  The possibilities being offered today, such as CGIs, voice-automated technology, artificial intelligence, more sophisticated programs and the like are just a few of the things we can expect.  With computer programming, many aspects of our lives have gotten easier, quicker, safer and much more interesting.

A Basic Introduction to Computer Programming Topics

Computer programming is one of the fields under computer science.  While computer science refers to the study of computer applications, computer programming deals with the basics of a computer program – how it works, how it is designed, how it is fixed and why.  If you're planning to learn programming soon, here is an introduction to computer programming topics you're likely to encounter:

The basics of computer programming
Like most disciplines, you will begin by learning the fundamentals of computer programming.  Depending on your instructor or curriculum, you will probably be introduced to the history of programming and its languages and find out about what has occurred over the years through a timeline.

You will also be introduced to the basic concepts and theories of programming and how they have evolved over the years.  You'll be able to see how fast programming has progressed over the centuries and learn the significant developments in this field.  You will also encounter topics such as computer hardware, software, systems and language.  You will have to learn these basics in order to understand how your field of specialization can contribute.  This may seem too troublesome but really, you need to have a good background in the progress of programming to help give you a good grasp of its fundamentals.

Computer software
The result of all your hard work is actually the computer software, so expect this topic to be included in your introductory course.  Some of the topics you'll find under this subject include application software, programming software and system software.  During classes dealing with these subjects, you'll learn how to use programming tools, database management systems, assemblers, debuggers, text and source code editors, and the like.

Programming
Finally, you will be introduced to the topic you've been raring to learn – programming.  Here you'll learn different types programming processes, styles and methods.  You will learn the different types of programming including concurrent, functional, declarative (event-driven), imperative, object-oriented and Parsing.

Probably the next topics you'll learn are the basic components of every computer program, such as the source code and the API or application programming interface.  You'll also learn how instruction is carried out to command a computer to execute a particular set of directions.

You'll also learn programming languages, which will introduce you to the kind of language you have chosen to specialize in.  Your instructor might also present your class with a simple comparison of the different types of languages in use today and you'll also probably learn the types of languages that have lost favor or are already obsolete.  You'll learn semantics, dialects and theories.

This is also where you'll begin learning how to program or write codes.  Although your learning at this point will consist of lectures, a good part of your class will be spent working hands-on so you can begin practicing what the instructor has taught you.  This is how your progress as a computer programmer will be evaluated.

The process of programming
One of the earliest topics you will encounter when learning computer programming is the process with which codes and computer languages are designed and produced.  The process of programming includes several steps, such as:

1. Definition of the problem.
2. Design or plan of the solution.
3. Design of the code to be used for the program.
4. Testing and evaluation of the program.
5. Documentation.

Debugging, testing and maintenance
Probably the final list of topics you'll learn as your introduction to computer programming is application.  In these topics, you'll learn how to test the program you have written, spot and locate any errors and correct them.

What You Should Know About Learning Computer Programming

So you want to learn computer programming.  You've made a good choice.  Computer programming is a very exciting field of study.  In fact, it has experienced some impressive growth over the past 10 years and shows no sign of stopping.  It is one of the few disciplines that experts say will survive for the next couple of centuries.  It's dynamic, very challenging and quite rewarding either as a job or as a personal pursuit.  If learning computer programming is your goal this year, here are some things you might want to know about this field:



Computer programming wears a lot of hats.

The word programming is sometimes alternated with coding.  Quite simply, it is a job that requires writing the source code used by computer programs.  To become a computer programmer, you must learn the techniques on how to write this code.  Since computer programs vary in design and function, so will the manner with which their source codes are written.



This is why computer programming cannot be used to refer to a single computer language.  It is, in fact, a term that refers to many different computer languages.  If you want to learn computer programming, take a pick among languages such as COBOL (old but still reliable), FORTRAN (still used in many engineering applications), Java, HTML/XML, Visual Basic, C/C++, PHP, Perl and Python, among others.



What you'll be learning

It would help if you have a basic knowledge of computer operation just before you come in for classes.  However, there are many introductory courses on computer programming where students are not required to have a background in computers.  The only drawback is that you'll start from step 1, literally.  Try to familiarize yourself with computers first before taking a beginner class in computer programming.



Your first courses in programming school will usually consist of an overview of the computer programming industry – its history, pioneers, groundbreaking developments, etc.  You will then be introduced to the fundamentals of the discipline, including its theories, definitions and basic concepts.  This is done to ensure that you have a good foundation in the language you will be specializing in.



Once that's done, your instructor will begin teaching you programming itself, such as how to write commands and queries.  Your ultimate goal as a computer programmer is mainly to write a series of very detailed instructions using a language that a computer can understand and execute.  During the course of your learning, this is exactly what your instructor will teach you.



Where to learn

You shouldn’t have any problems locating a school that teaches computer programming.  You will probably find a good one in your area.  Depending on the type of course you enroll in, classes will usually meet at least once a week (some meet 4 times a week) and last from 45 minutes to an hour.  If you prefer, you can also learn online, provided you're a self-starter and has the patience and will to follow through.



Personal characteristics for learning computer programming

It is said that you learn best if you take your temperament and personality into consideration.  When you want to dabble or become an expert in computer programming, it's no different.  There are certain characteristics that successful computer programmers exhibit.  For one, learning computer programming entails plenty of mathematics and logic, which means you will need to have a good amount of self-discipline and patience during class and especially during practical applications.  You'll also have to be creative and imaginative, so you can approach a problem in more ways than one.

Where to Find Online Magazines for Computer Programming

Computer programming is a field that lives on trends.  This makes it important that programmers, computer enthusiasts and other experts in the field continuously update their skills and knowledge to remain competitive and relevant.  Online magazines, for one, are an excellent source of new information about the discipline.  There are several of these magazines that are very useful, particularly to students and professionals of computer programming.  Below is a list of online magazines that you might want to check out:



C++ Source

C++ Source is an excellent online magazine for users of this language.  The mag is filled with very informative feature articles, news and updates about C++ and its practitioners.  There is also a section that offers tutorials for those who are still unfamiliar with C++, which makes this a very useful resource for students and professionals alike.  To access the mag, go to www.artima.com and click on the link to cppsource.



Doctor Dobb's Journal

Dr. Dobb's Journal is one of the top online magazines that are currently active today.  The mag features articles, tips, advice, book and software reviews, source codes and other resources that computer programming practitioners will find very useful.



Developer.*

DeveloperDotStar.com is an independent online magazine that offers plenty of information for professionals in the fields of computer programming and software development.  So whether you're an enthusiast or a full-fledged programmer, a software engineer or a database designer, this online magazine holds a good variety of topics for you.



You can also subscribe to their online newsletter or peruse the website for articles and blogs.  The site (www.developerdotstar.com) also has an FAQ section that you might want to check out.  This is quite useful if you have a question about a particular issue.



Methods & Tools

This free online magazine is available either as a PDF file or a text issue.  It offers some very practical advice and information about software engineering and development that professionals in this field will find very valuable.  Past articles and issues may be downloaded from the archives – earliest issues date back to 1999.  The site also has links to news, facts and information about software development tools that you might find useful.



Byte

Byte is not exactly an online magazine but it's too useful to pass up.  The most sought-after features in this site are its articles, many of which were written by computer programming experts.  The archive section which contains the columns and articles go back to 1994.  To keep updated about the discipline, you can check out the site regularly for some very practical articles written by those who know computer programming best.



Leading-Edge Java

Leading-Edge Java is another online publication from Artima.com but it caters to users and developers of Java.  So if you are a professional devoted to the language, you'll find this mag quite useful.  Here, everything you'll need to pursue and refine your knowledge and skills in Java technology are yours for the clicking – news, write-ups, interviews with other professionals, tools, tutorials and APIs.



Visual Systems Journal

VSJ (www.vsj.co.uk) is an online magazine for computer programming that offers a huge variety of information for users of different computer languages.  This is the perfect resource if you're using multiple languages or would like to learn more.  It mostly offers technical information which beginner and more experienced programmers will like.  It includes technologies and languages such as Java, XML, Visual Basic, database programming, .NET and web services, among others.

Computer Programming: Working In a Team

Computer programming requires some very intricate work.  This is the type of work that thrives on details and people who work in this field understand that the absence of even the minute elements can spell a huge difference in the overall result.  If a programmer fails to correct this problem, it can lead to errors down the line.  As a result, bugs will appear in the system and errors will emerge later on.  Programming is also taxing work, requiring hours upon hours of writing, testing and debugging.  This is why computer programming thrives on team work.  Without team work, a single computer program can take decades to complete.

Although one programmer has the necessary skills and knowledge to work competently on a problem or even create a program, he or she can only do so much.  Creating the source code for an operating system, for example, will require thousands of manhours from a single programmer and most probably, he or she will only be halfway through.  There just isn’t enough time for one or even two programmers to work effectively to produce a usable program.

Team profile
So what constitutes a team in computer programming?  A team is usually headed by the team leader, such as a systems analyst or senior programmer.  The senior programmer is usually a person who has had years of training and experience behind him.  His task is to supervise the team, lead in brainstorming and problem solving sessions, delegate assignments, check the correctness of the coding, dispense advice and recommendations and lead in debugging and software maintenance.

The team leader is the one who holds the team together and ensures there is a well coordinated effort that will lead to the desired results.  All team members report to him and depending on the size of the project, the team leader may have an assistant or another leader to work with.

The team is usually composed of junior or entry level programmers, particularly those who may have the qualifications but not the number of years' worth of experience yet.  Depending on what the team leader wants, a junior programmer may be tasked to work on his own on much simpler assignments or he may be assigned as part of a group.  This group may consist of other entry level programmers or more experienced professionals.

The members of a team are chosen based on their expertise.  At the beginning of a project, the team leader, along with other more senior programmers, will try to break down the problem into components, which will consist of tasks.  Tasks can vary according to complexity and function and will be assigned to a team who has the skills to complete them.

The number of programmers in a team can be as small as 3 or it can number in the dozens or even hundreds.  Again, it all depends on the size of the project and the availability of resources.

Team work is a necessary component of computer programming.  It helps pool a group's resources and form a coordinated effort in order to produce a particular program or software.  In some cases, such as in exceptionally huge projects, some teams may work alternately or in shifts, which makes it necessary that a team is capable of sustaining coordination among them.

Team work drives computer programming.  A vast majority of the computer programs and software we enjoy today – from the operating systems to the video games to the technology that run our phones – were produced not by a single programmer but by a team.  Whatever it is that has made using computers and other forms of technology that much easier and more convenient is something we owe to a team of well-trained and highly skilled computer programmers.

Computer Software Online Training

Computer software online training courses can include any program that you may use on your computer.  These computer software online training courses have been created to help make it easier for individuals and career minded people to learn the skills they need for the programs they will have to use.  If you are going to be using Microsoft office on your computer at home or for a job, you may need to learn the ins and outs of the program.  There are several little commands on every program that can help you streamline your work and make things move a little faster.

You will find that the computer software online training courses vary. Some of the training courses only exist to help the layperson learn a little more about how to use programs, while other courses are actually there to get you a degree in the IT field. You will be able to learn valuable skills for whatever your purposes are. Computer software usually takes a few minutes to work through the program by clicking on the various toolbars and seeing what you have. However, there are a lot of individuals who feel just clicking might get them into trouble, which is where the online training course comes in.  You will be able to work right from your home through the courses making it easier for you to get through the tutorials.

The computer software online training courses offer step-by-step instruction on how to use the various toolbars and task that the program has.  For instance if you are going to use excel as part of the word program the tutorial will walk you through the various functions of the spread sheet, how to create formulas, and how to create graphs.  You will also be taught every basic function for the program.  Once you have completed one of these computer software online training courses you should be able to trouble shoot most of your problems.

The IT courses will take you a step further in how to install the computer software and how to uninstall it.  An IT tech may also learn more in depth trouble shooting techniques involved with the computer.  Most IT tech’s will also be learning the computer software jargon that most lay people find too confusing and unnecessary for the daily function of the programs they will be using.

When you are choosing your computer software online training course you may wish to stay with the same company because of the benefits offered.  Most companies have a per class price or a per year price.  This means you will be able to take just what you need or you can take as many classes as you need for a set cost saving you money.  If you are looking to join the computer software industry as an IT tech you will need to find a reputable online university to help you gain the certifications you need.  It is best to find a company or online school that will offer all of the programs you will need to learn, as there is monetary benefit.

There are some computer software online training courses that are just out to make a little money off of the gullible.  You will want to research the company before you consider paying for the classes.  You may even wish to take a sample tutorial to make sure you are going to learn the information you need to know.

Computer software can be confusing for the individual who has never used the programs before.  These online training courses are meant to help you work through some of the problems you may have and help you become more adapt with the program.  When you are on a deadline, it is important to be able to troubleshoot your own problems rather than wait for an IT tech if it is minor, like recovering a file.  You will find all that and more as part of these online courses.