Computer Programming
Table of Contents
Introduction 3
History of Programming 4
Types of programming languages 4
Programming language categories 5
Advantages of computer programming 5
Disadvantages of computer programming 6
Skills required for Computer programming 6
Qualifications to be a programmer 7
Salary 7
Recommendation 8
Conclusion 8
References 9
Introduction
Currently, almost all activities depend on computers in one way or the other. Several people use programs such as word processors and web browsers on their computers. The advancements in network technology have boosted the era of the internet, from which we can retrieve almost all kinds of information. Computers are also used for tasks that are much more complicated; for instance, financialinstitutions use computers in their various tasks, controlling most of the world’s money; modern cities also make use of computers to ensure that their infrastructure runs smoothly. Computer programming gives an answer to questions such as, how does this happen? How do computers know what they are expected to do and how to react under certain circumstances?
Programming refers to the process that involves providing a machine e with a set of instructions describing the way that a program should be executed. These instructions are responsible for how a computer behaves during the execution of applications, and these sets of instructions are referred to as codes. For computer programmers to be able to effectively develop computer programs, they are expected to learn a variety of programming languages as well as tools.
Programmers use an IntegratedDevelopment environment (IDE) for writing codes referred to as source code; this refers to a set of code written in a programming language that can be understood by other programmers. The source code is converted into machine language so that the instruction scan be understood by machines to enable the execution of the program. Compiling refers to the process involved in the conversion of source code to machine language. C and C++ are an example of programming languages that need compilers.
However, there are also several languages that do not need compilers because rather than using a compiler, they use an interpreter, which reads and executes the code.JavaScript and PHP are instances of programming languages that use an interpreter. For an application to run, the code should be first executed.
History of Programming
Ada Lovelace is popularly believed to be the first person to come up with a published computer program in the mid-19th century. Ada Lovelace was a mathematicianin charge of translating Luigi Federico Menabrea’s writings regarding the analytical engine. It is believed that Ada Lovelace made additional notes hence creating a method for computing Bernoulli numbers for the analytical engine. It is also believed that Alonzo Church and the Turing machine also contributed to the creation of the first computer code.
The computer was invented during the 1920s resulting in the first programming languages. In the following century, major technologicaladvancements took place, resulting in the development of more programming languages.
Types of programming languages
We currently have several programming languages. Before a program developer decides on the programming language to use, they consider the application requirement. The following are some of the popular programming languages: python, C/C++, Ruby, JavaScript, PHP, and Java. JavaScript I mostly used in web development, but it can as well be used in mobile and game development. Python is used in various areas, such as machine learning, data analysis, and web development.
Programming language categories
i. Machine language –low-level language consisting of binary values (0’s and 1’s). High-level languages are converted to machine language for execution.
ii. Assembly language – low-level language converted by an assembler which converts it to machine code.
iii. Procedural languages –languages that go through a series of procedures for the execution of a program, for instance, Go and Julia.
iv. Scripting languages –languagesthat are read and executed by an interpreter instead of compiling, forinstance, JavaScript and PHP.
v. Functional languages –based on the concept of creating complex programs through a set of smaller functions, for instance, Haskell and Scala.
vi. Object-oriented languages –based on the concept of creating programs around a set of objects, for instance, Java and Python.
Advantages of computer programming
Helps in understanding technology –technological advancements are taking place at tremendous speed, and coding is a key component in the technological evolution and is bound to become increasingly essential in the new era of robotics and automated technology.
i. Acquisition of problem-solving
Programming enables one to develop logical thinking skills since it allows oneto view problems from a new perspective. Projects involving complex programs are a buildup of smaller tasks, a breakdown of such complex problems, and the use of methodological reasoning, enabling one to handle any challenge.
ii. Complements creativity
Programming helps one to show creativity online; for instance, individuals with programming knowledge can create online blogs or complex websites and customize them instead of using pre-existing templates. Programming also provides various opportunities for creativity, such as graphic design and web and application development.
iii. Improve career prospects
Programming skills are highly demanded across various industries providing an excellent earning potential along with several career paths, such as software developer and technical support specialist, among others.
Disadvantages of computer programming
i. Developments happen at a fast pace – a computer programmer is required to keep learning emerging information fast and competently, which can be challenging.
ii. Computer programming is based on technology –if one is not passionate about technology or is not happy with the effects it has on values, then thriving in this field becomes difficult.
iii. Health problems –there is some healthrisk associated with using computers while programming; these include pains in wrists, eyes, and back resulting from spending long hours sitting and typing on the computer.
Skills required for Computer programming
Proficiency in programming languages – programmers are required to have knowledge of the various programming languagesand be proficient in at least two languages to be more valuable.
i. Mathematical skills–one needs excellent knowledge of algebra, arithmetic, well as other mathematical concepts beyond the basic level for one to become a programmer.
ii. Problem-solving capability –one is required to be able to identify problems and identify ways to solve them efficiently through computer programs.
iii. Writing skills – one needs to have good writing skills since a programmer is needed to communicate their work or processesinvolved to individuals who might lack the same level of coding knowledge.
iv. Inquisitiveness – a programmer is expected to be eager to find out how a process is performed and identify how to perform it more efficiently.
Qualifications to be a programmer
i. Computer science or computer programming degree
ii. Should possess excellent I.T. skills
iii. Excellent mathematical skills
iv. Excellent understanding of the operating system
v. Good analytical and problem-solving skills
vi. Eagerness to learn new technology
vii. Excellent communication skills
viii. Ability to meet deadlines
Salary
The average salary for computer programmers in the USA as of the year 2022 is $64,970 per year and $33.32 per hour. An entry-level position salary starts at $45,000 per year, and most experienced workers get up to $105,000 in a year.
Recommendation
Despite the challenges associated with computer programming, it is an important field that drives most of the technological advancements witnessed today. Educational institutions should research and adopt strategies to encourage more students to select computer programming training courses to fill the gap in the technology industry.
Conclusion
Computer programming is a very rewarding career financially and intellectually. However, one should be open to learning new information and solving complex problems as a programmer. There are several areas of programming in which an individual could venture provided the right skills.
References
Bosso, L.C. and da Silva, P.R., (2013, October). Teaching computer programming: A practical review. In 2013 IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference (FIE) (pp. 508–510). IEEE.
Knuth, D.E., (2014). Art of computer programming, volume 2: Seminumerical algorithms. Addison-Wesley Professional.
Pierce, B.C., and Benjamin, C., (2002). Types and programming languages. MIT Press.
Piteira, M. and Costa, C., 2013, July. Learning computer programming: a study of difficulties in learning programming. In Proceedings of the 2013 International Conference on Information Systems and Design of Communication (pp. 75-80).
Rajon, S.A., (2016). Fundamentals of Computer Programming with C. SA AHSAN RAJON.
Scherer, R., Siddiq, F. and Sánchez Viveros, B., 2019. The cognitive benefits of learning computer programming: A meta-analysis of transfer effects. Journal of Educational Psychology, 111(5), p.764.
Van-Roy, P. and Haridi, S., (2004). Concepts, techniques, and models of computer programming. MIT Press.
Vee, A., (2013). Understanding computer programming as a literacy. Literacy in Composition Studies, 1(2), 42–64.
Essay Writing Service Features
Our Experience
No matter how complex your assignment is, we can find the right professional for your specific task. Global Assignment is an essay writing company that hires only the smartest minds to help you with your projects. Our expertise allows us to provide students with high-quality academic writing, editing & proofreading services.
Free Features
Free revision policy
$10Free bibliography & reference
$8Free title page
$8Free formatting
$8How Our Essay Writing Service Works
First, you will need to complete an order form. It's not difficult but, in case there is anything you find not to be clear, you may always call us so that we can guide you through it. On the order form, you will need to include some basic information concerning your order: subject, topic, number of pages, etc. We also encourage our clients to upload any relevant information or sources that will help.
Complete the order form
Once we have all the information and instructions that we need, we select the most suitable writer for your assignment. While everything seems to be clear, the writer, who has complete knowledge of the subject, may need clarification from you. It is at that point that you would receive a call or email from us.
Writer’s assignment
As soon as the writer has finished, it will be delivered both to the website and to your email address so that you will not miss it. If your deadline is close at hand, we will place a call to you to make sure that you receive the paper on time.
Completing the order and download