AP Computer Science Principles Vocabulary

Abstraction - Defined as the process of reducing complexity by focusing on the main idea. - This concept allows for the hiding of specific details, utilizing a high-level concept (such as a function name) to represent a more complex set of instructions.
Heuristic - Described as a "rule of thumb" or an approach to finding a solution. - This method is used when an exact algorithm is impractical or too slow. - Example: Finding a "good enough" path in a GPS system.
Selection - A generic term utilized for a "decision" within code. - It typically utilizes if-statements to determine which specific path a program should take.
Iteration - Refers to the repetition of a specific process. - Common implementations include loops such as repeat, for, or while.

Linear Search - A search algorithm that checks every individual element in a list one by one. - The process continues sequentially until the target element is found.
Binary Search - A search algorithm characterized as being much faster than linear search. - It functions by repeatedly dividing a sorted list in half until the target is located.

Bit - The smallest unit of data in computing. - It represents a value of either $0$ or a $1$ .
Metadata - This is data that describes other data. - Examples of metadata include: - The date a photo was taken. - The file size of a document.

DNS (Domain Name System) - Known as the "phone book" of the Internet. - Its function is to translate human-readable URLs (such as google.com) into IP addresses.
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) - A protocol that works in conjunction with IP (Internet Protocol). - It ensures that packets of data arrive reliably and in the correct intended order.
Bandwidth - The maximum amount of data that can be sent in a fixed amount of time. - It is usually measured in units of $\text{bits per second}$ .

Citizen Science - Scientific research conducted by distributed individuals. - Many participants may not be professional scientists. - These individuals contribute relevant data using their own personal computing devices.
Open Access / Open Source - Policies or licenses that allow software or data to be freely shared, used, and modified by any party.
Creative Commons - A public copyright license. - It enables the free distribution of a work that would otherwise be copyrighted.
Bias (in Algorithms) - Occurs when an algorithm Provides systematically prejudiced results. - This results from erroneous assumptions during the machine learning process or the use of biased training data.

Malware - Software specifically intended to damage or disable computers and computer systems. - Examples include: - Viruses. - Worms. - Ransomware.
Rogue Access Point - A wireless access point that has been installed on a secure network without explicit authorization. - These are often used as a means to intercept data.
Encryption - The process of encoding messages to keep them secret. - The goal is to ensure that only "authorized" parties have the ability to read the information. - Key considerations include the distinction between Encryption and Decryption. - Key types include: - Symmetric Key. - Public Key.