Prelude to Programming: Concepts and Design

Prelude to Programming is appropriate for Pre-Programming and Introductory Programming courses in community colleges, 4-year colleges, and universities. No prior computer or programming experience is necessary although readers are expected to be familiar with college entry-level mathematics.

Prelude to Programming provides beginning students with a language-independent framework for learning core programming concepts and effective design techniques. This approach gives students the foundation they need to understand the logic behind program design and to establish effective programming skills.

The Sixth Edition offers students a lively and accessible presentation as they learn core programming concepts ― including data types, control structures, data files and arrays, and program design techniques such as top-down modular design and proper program documentation and style. Problem-solving skills are developed when students learn how to use basic programming tools and algorithms, which include data validation, defensive programming, calculating sums and averages, and searching and sorting lists.

Teaching and Learning Experience

This program presents a better teaching and learning experience–for you and your students. It provides:

• A Language-Independent, Flexible Presentation: The text has been designed so that instructors can use it for students at various levels.
• Features that Help Solidify Concepts: Examples, exercises, and programming challenges help students understand how concepts in the text apply to real-life programs.
• Real Programming Experience with RAPTOR: Students gain first-hand programming experience through the optional use of RAPTOR, a free flowchart-based programming environment.
• Support Learning: Resources are available to expand on the topics presented in the text.

Stewart Venit received a PhD in mathematics from the University of California, Berkeley in 1971. For the past two decades, he has taught mathematics at California State University in Los Angeles. Professor Venit is a past department Chair and recipient of the University’s Outstanding Professor Award. He has authored numerous journal articles and ten textbooks for mathematics or computer science.

Elizabeth Drake has worked full time as a professor in the ITE and Math Departments at Santa Fe CC since 1999. Before that, she was an adjunct professor and lecturer in Math, Computer Science, Physics, and Anthropology at SFC, UF, Three Rivers Community College in Connecticut, and the University of Connecticut. She has earned Master's degrees in Anthropology (A.B.D.) and Counseling, a B.S.E.E. in Electrical Engineering, a B.S. in Physics, B.A. in  Sociology, and A.S. in Computer Information Technology.