Abstraction, Problem Decomposition, and Functions from Coursera

This course is the third course in the specialization exploring both computational thinking and beginning C programming. Rather than trying to define computational thinking, we’ll just say it’s a problem-solving process that includes lots of different components. Most people have a better understanding of what beginning C programming means!

This course assumes you have the prerequisite knowledge from the previous two courses in the specialization. You should make sure you have that knowledge, either by taking those previous courses or from personal experience, before tackling this course. The required prerequisite knowledge is listed below.

Prerequisite computational thinking knowledge: Algorithms and procedures and data collection, analysis, and representation

Prerequisite C knowledge: Data types, variables, constants; STEM computations; selection; and iteration (looping)

Throughout this course the computational thinking topics you'll explore are abstraction, which is deciding which details matter for the problem you're trying to solve, and problem decomposition, which is about breaking large problems into smaller sub-problems to handle complexity. For the programming topics, you'll continue building on your C knowledge by practicing using arrays, which let you store multiple values in a single variable, and strings, which are arrays of characters. You'll also learn how to implement functions, which are the mechanism we use for problem decomposition in our C programs.

Module 1: Learn about arrays as a way to store multiple values in a single variable

Module 2: Discover how we store and process strings (arrays of characters)

Module 3: Explore abstraction and problem decomposition

Module 4: Use functions to implement problem decomposition in your code

What's inside

Syllabus

Arrays

Strings

Abstraction and Problem Decomposition

Functions

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops computational thinking skills, which are core to problem-solving in many fields

Covers arrays, strings, abstraction, problem decomposition, and functions, which are fundamental concepts in computer science

Taught by Dr. Tim "Dr. T" Chamillard, who is recognized for his expertise in teaching computational thinking and C programming

Provides hands-on practice through exercises and projects, reinforcing the concepts learned

Assumes prerequisite knowledge from previous courses in the specialization, which may require additional study for learners new to the topic

Reviews summary

Well-received course in abstraction

Learners say that Abstraction, Problem Decomposition, and Functions is a well-received course for those who want to learn the fundamentals of abstraction and functions. The course is engaging and makes the material easy to understand. The assignments are helpful and the instructor is knowledgeable and supportive.

The instructor is knowledgeable and supportive.

"The instructor is very knowledgeable and supportive."

"The instructor was always available to answer my questions and provide feedback."

"The instructor is really passionate about the subject and it shows in his teaching."

Helpful exercises to master abstraction.

"The assignments are helpful and make the material easy to understand."

"I found the assignments to be very helpful in solidifying my understanding of the material."

"The assignments were challenging but fair, and they helped me to learn a lot."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Abstraction, Problem Decomposition, and Functions with these activities:

Read 'Head First C Programming' by Eric Freeman and Elisabeth Robson

Show steps

Get a deeper understanding of C programming concepts and techniques by reading this highly-rated book. It provides a practical and engaging approach to learning C.

View Head First Design Patterns on Amazon

Show steps

Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
Dedicate time each week to read and understand the material.
Complete the exercises and activities provided in the book to reinforce your learning.

Review C Programming Basics

Show steps

Revisit the basics of C programming, such as data types, variables, and control flow, to strengthen your foundation before diving into the C programming topics covered in this course.

Show steps

Review an online tutorial or resource on C programming basics.
Complete a few practice exercises or coding challenges to reinforce your understanding.

Compile a Glossary of Computational Thinking Terms

Show steps

Create a comprehensive glossary of key computational thinking terms and their definitions. This will help you solidify your understanding of the concepts and provide a valuable reference for future study.

Browse courses on Computational Thinking

Show steps

Review the course materials and identify key computational thinking terms.
Research and gather definitions for each term from reliable sources.
Organize the terms and definitions into a structured glossary.

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Discuss Problem Solving Strategies

Show steps

Engage with your peers to exchange ideas and discuss different strategies for solving problems. This will broaden your perspective and expose you to alternative approaches.

Browse courses on Problem Solving

Show steps

Join or form a study group with other students taking the course.
Discuss a specific problem or challenge you encountered in the course material.
Share and evaluate different strategies for solving the problem.

Practice Data Manipulation with Arrays

Show steps

Get hands-on experience with manipulating data using arrays. This will solidify your understanding of how arrays work and how to use them effectively in your C programs.

Browse courses on Arrays

Show steps

Find online coding exercises or challenges that focus on using arrays.
Practice implementing different array operations, such as accessing elements, storing values, and iterating through arrays.

Implement a Simple Function in C

Show steps

Put your knowledge of functions into practice by creating your own function in C. This will deepen your understanding of how functions work and how to use them to break down complex problems.

Browse courses on Functions

Show steps

Identify a problem or task that can be solved using a function.
Design the function's interface, including its name, parameters, and return type.
Implement the function's logic in C.
Test the function with different input values to ensure it works correctly.

Create a Visual Guide to Data Structures

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of data structures by creating a visual guide that illustrates their properties and relationships. This will help you visualize and retain the concepts more effectively.

Browse courses on Data Structures

Show steps

Research and gather information about different data structures.
Design and create visual representations for each data structure, highlighting their key features and operations.
Organize and present your visual guide in a clear and concise manner.

Mentor a Beginner C Programmer

Show steps

Help others understand the fundamentals of C programming by mentoring them. This will deepen your own understanding and reinforce your knowledge as you explain concepts to others.

Browse courses on Mentorship

Show steps

Identify someone who is new to C programming and is looking for guidance.
Schedule regular sessions to provide support and answer questions.
Provide constructive feedback and encouragement to help the mentee progress.

Career center

Learners who complete Abstraction, Problem Decomposition, and Functions will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Developer

Software developers use their programming skills to design, develop, and test software applications. The programming skills you will gain from this course, such as problem decomposition and function implementation, will be valuable in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Systems Engineer

Systems engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining complex systems. The programming and problem-solving skills you will gain from this course will be valuable in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Software Engineer

Software engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. This course will provide you with many of the in-demand hard skills required for software engineering, including proficiency in programming languages, data structures, and algorithms.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality assurance analysts are responsible for testing software to ensure that it meets quality standards. The programming and problem-solving skills you will gain from this course will be valuable in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Data Analyst

The ability to organize and interpret data is crucial for a data analyst. This course will give you a good foundation in data collection, analysis, and visualization, which will help you with your data analysis. Data analysts transform raw data into actionable insights that can help improve business operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Systems Analyst

This course is an excellent way to gain the skills needed for a career as a systems analyst. Systems analysts assess business needs to determine how they will be met using information technology solutions. The principles of data collection and analysis taught in this course will be invaluable.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Web Developer

Web developers design and develop websites and web applications. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in programming, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, as well as problem-solving and debugging skills that are essential for web development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Data Scientist

The skills you will gain from this course, such as data collection, analysis, and visualization, will be valuable for a career as a data scientist. Data scientists use data to solve business problems and make informed decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Information Technology Manager

This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as an information technology manager, who is responsible for planning, implementing, and maintaining an organization's information technology systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

Database Administrator

A database administrator is responsible for ensuring the proper functioning of an organization's database systems. This course can help you gain the knowledge and skills needed for this role, such as data modeling, database design, and performance tuning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Project Manager

Project managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. This course will provide you with the skills needed for this role, such as project planning, risk management, and communication.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Business Analyst

A business analyst helps organizations improve their business operations. This course can provide you with the skills needed for this role, such as process analysis, problem solving, and communication.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Information Security Analyst

You'll gain a solid foundation in computer programming and problem solving through this course, which will be useful in the field of information security analysis. Information security analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from malicious attacks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Computer Programmer

This specialization can help you succeed as a computer programmer because it provides a solid foundation in programming. A computer programmer's responsibilities include creating, maintaining, and testing software programs, and requires expertise in programming languages and software development tools.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Computer Systems Analyst

Analyzing business operations is made easier by the data collection and evaluation methods taught in this course. They'll be useful in resolving systems issues and giving recommendations for business process improvements. Computer systems analysts help plan, build, and maintain information systems with their expertise in both business operations and computer technology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst