OER by Discipline: IT and Computer Science

This book covers networks from a systems perspective, focusing on the design principles underlying the construction of large networks, their protocols and the applications they support. It provides a comprehensive coverage of the protocols and technology in use today as well as a discussion of several historically relevant protocols and applications.

The text is divided into lecture-length sections, facilitating the organization of an instructor's presentation. Topics are presented in such a way that students' understanding can be monitored through thought-provoking exercises. The exercises require an understanding of the topics and how they are interrelated, not just a familiarity with the key words.

This text adopts a minimalist view to bring the critical components, topics, and processes to readers to provide an open, no boundaries perspective of information systems.

This book aims to teach usage of the latest version of Lua. This means it will be attempted to regularly update it as new versions of Lua come out (Lua releases are infrequent enough that this should not be too difficult). Currently, the book is up-to-date for Lua 5.2, which is the previous version.

Introduction to Python Programming is an interactive offering that teaches basic programming concepts, problem-solving skills, and the Python language using hands-on activities. The resource includes a unique, integrated code runner through which students can immediately apply what they learn to check their understanding. Embedded videos, critical thinking exercises, and explorations of external programming tools and activities all contribute to a meaningful and supportive learning experience.

Languages represented are: Java, C++, MIPS, Pharo, Sqeak by Example, ARM, Fortran, and x86-64.