APCSP - Big Idea 1

Big Idea 1 (Creative Development)

Focuses on how computer programs are developed to solve problems and create value.

Program

A collection of program statements that perform a specific task when executed by a computer.

Algorithm

A finite set of instructions that accomplish a specific task.

Collaboration

Working with others to plan, write, and improve code, often leading to more effective and creative solutions.

Benefits of Collaboration

Diverse perspectives, faster problem solving, fewer bugs, enhanced creativity.

Incremental Development

A process of breaking a program into small parts and building it gradually, testing each part along the way.

Iterative Development

Repeating cycles of designing, implementing, and refining a program or solution.

Program Specification

A detailed description of what a program is intended to do, including inputs, outputs, and behaviors.

Development Process

The steps followed to design, implement, test, and refine a program.

Pseudocode

A simplified way of writing out an algorithm using plain language and basic programming structure.

Flowchart

A visual representation of the sequence of steps and decisions in an algorithm or program.

Event

An action or occurrence (like a mouse click or key press) that can trigger a specific behavior in a program.

Documentation

Explanations of how code works, making it easier to maintain, update, and collaborate.

Abstraction

Reducing complexity by hiding details to focus on high-level concepts or functionality.

Code Segment

A portion of code that performs a specific function within a program.

Input

Data or information sent to a computer system, often by a user or another program.

Output

Data or information that is the result of the program’s processes and is sent out from the program.

Debugging

The process of finding and fixing errors or bugs in a program.

Syntax Error

A mistake in the code that violates the programming language rules, such as a missing bracket or typo.

Runtime Error

An error that occurs while the program is running, such as dividing by zero or accessing a non-existent list item.

Logic Error

An error where the program runs but produces incorrect results due to a flaw in the algorithm.

Program Statement

A command or line of code that performs a specific action.

Pair Programming

A collaborative method where two programmers work together at one computer, with one typing (driver) and one reviewing (navigator).

Library

A collection of prewritten code that can be reused in different programs.

API (Application Programming Interface)

A set of definitions and tools that allow programs to communicate with other software or services.

Modularity

The design concept of breaking a program into independent, interchangeable modules.

Function (or Procedure)

A named group of statements that perform a specific task and can be reused in the program.

Parameter

A variable used in a function to accept input values when the function is called.

Return Value

The output produced by a function that is sent back to the part of the program that called it.

Testing a Program

Running a program with various inputs to ensure it behaves as expected and produces correct outputs.

User-Centered Design

Designing software with the needs, wants, and limitations of end users in mind.

Revising a Program

Making changes to improve functionality, fix bugs, or add new features based on testing or feedback.