Learning objectives
Learning the basic concepts of computer science and being able to develop simple computer programs, following the object-oriented paradigm. The main programming language used in this course is C++.
Prerequisites
None. However, the student is supposed to know the basic computer and Internet operations - the equivalent of modules 1, 2, 3 and 7 of ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) Syllabus.
Course unit content
C++ language, data collections and streams, functions, classes and objects, graphical interfaces, memory management.
Full programme
The laboratory exercitations are central for the course. The proposed exercises deal with the same general matters of classroom lessons. Their objective is introducing the principles of object-orientd programming, leading the student to the solution of problems with a growing level of complexity.
1. The C++ language: program structure. elementary data types, constants, variables, expressions, condictions, cycles, nesting.
2. Data collections and streams: vectors, matrices, maps, reading and writing data, console, files, strings.
3. Functions: scope of identificators, parameter passing methods, stack and activation records, recursion.
4. Classes and objects: encapsulation, dynamic allocation of objects, associations among classes, inheritance and polimorphism.
5. Graphical interfaces: Qt libraries, layout of elements, buttons, menus, signaling mechanisms, events, timers, scenes with animated elements.
6. Memory management: iterators, pointers, arrays, arrays of characters, dynamic memory management.
Bibliography
B. Stroustrup: Programming: Principles and Practice Using C++ - Addison-Wesley (2009) - 978-0321543721
B. Eckel: Thinking in C++. Prentice-Hall (2000).
A. Koenig, B.E. Moo: Accelerated C++: Practical Programming by Example. Addison-Wesley (2000).
Teaching methods
Programming exercises in laboratory.
Assessment methods and criteria
The examination consists of a test about theory (brief exercizes and quizzes to answer in about half an hour), a programming test (an object-oriented program in C++, to develop in about 3 hours) and a talk. A constant and particularly effective participation to exercitations could exonerate from the final programming test.
Other information
Alternative textbooks
J.G. Brookshear: Informatica. Una panoramica generale. Pearson (2012).
U. Avalle, L. Console, M. Ribaudo. Introduzione all'informatica. UTET (2010).
E. Clementini: Fondamenti di Informatica – Programmazione strutturata in C++. Carocci (2006).
B. Stroustrup: Programming: Principles and Practice Using C++. Addison-Wesley (2008).
H. Schildt: C++: A Beginner's Guide. McGraw-Hill (2003).
S. Prata: C++ Primer Plus. Addison-Wesley (2011).
L.J. Aguilar: Fondamenti di programmazione in C++. McGraw-Hill (2008).
