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Andrew D. Hilton,
Anne Bracy,
and
Genevieve M. Lipp
The final course in the specialization Introduction to Programming in C will teach you powerful new programming techniques for interacting with the user and the system and dynamically allocating memory. You will learn more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user. Learning about dynamic memory allocation will allow your programs to perform complex tasks that will be applied in the final part of the specialization project: a Monte Carlo simulation for calculating poker hand probabilities.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/sxvtsy/interacting
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What's inside
Syllabus
Module 1: Interacting with the user and system
So far, our programs have had a rather limited interaction with the user or rest of the system, printing some results to standard output (typically to the terminal). Now that we have learned about topics such as strings and arrays, we are ready to learn how to write a program that takes input from the user, takes arguments on the command line, accesses files, and does many other things we typically think of real programs as doing.
Read more
Syllabus
Module 1: Interacting with the user and system
So far, our programs have had a rather limited interaction with the user or rest of the system, printing some results to standard output (typically to the terminal). Now that we have learned about topics such as strings and arrays, we are ready to learn how to write a program that takes input from the user, takes arguments on the command line, accesses files, and does many other things we typically think of real programs as doing.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Teaches powerful new programming techniques for interacting with the user and the system
Covers dynamic memory allocation, allowing for more complex programming tasks
Provides a solid foundation in programming concepts and techniques
Taught by experienced instructors with expertise in C programming
Suitable for learners with basic programming knowledge who want to advance their skills
Part of a specialization in Introduction to Programming in C, offering a comprehensive learning path
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Reviews summary
Foundational c programming: system interaction & memory
According to learners, this course covers crucial topics in C programming, specifically focusing on interacting with the system and managing memory dynamically. Many students find the content, particularly pointers and dynamic allocation, to be challenging but essential for building more complex programs. The final Poker Project is frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing valuable hands-on experience, although some find it difficult and requiring significant effort. Learners appreciate how the course builds on previous courses in the specialization, offering a solid foundation for professional programming, but some mention the need for careful attention to detail and debugging.
Effectiveness relies on understanding previous courses.
"This course heavily relies on the concepts taught in the previous modules of the specialization."
"Make sure you are comfortable with pointers and basic C syntax before starting this one."
"Building upon the foundation from earlier courses is crucial for success here."
"If you haven't taken the preceding courses, this one might be too difficult."
Lectures and explanations are generally clear and helpful.
"The instructor explains complex topics like dynamic memory allocation clearly."
"I found the lectures easy to follow, even when covering challenging material."
"The explanations provided a good conceptual understanding before tackling the assignments."
The poker project provides practical application of concepts learned.
"The Monte Carlo simulation poker project was a great way to apply all the concepts from the specialization."
"Working on the final project was demanding but provided invaluable experience with larger programs."
"I enjoyed implementing the poker hand probability calculation - it felt like a real programming task."
"The project really helped solidify my understanding of dynamic memory and file I/O."
Covers fundamental topics critical for C programming.
"The topics covered in this course are absolutely essential for anyone serious about C programming."
"Learning about file I/O and command-line arguments was very practical and immediately useful."
"This module provides the foundational knowledge needed to write programs that interact with the user and system."
"Understanding programming in the large and managing memory are key skills taught here."
Concepts like pointers and dynamic memory allocation are difficult.
"Managing dynamic memory and pointers in C is inherently tricky, and this course tackles it head-on."
"I really struggled to grasp the concepts of malloc, calloc, realloc, and free initially."
"Pointers and manual memory management were challenging but fundamental topics covered well."
"Understanding memory allocation and deallocation was the hardest part for me, but crucial."
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 Interacting with the System and Managing Memory with these
activities:
Complete basic C programming exercises
Show steps
Brush up on basic C programming skills to strengthen your foundation for this course.
Browse courses on
C Programming
Show steps
-
Review basic syntax and data types in C
-
Practice writing simple C programs using loops and conditionals
-
Solve coding exercises on basic C programming concepts
Review the book 'C Programming: A Modern Approach' by K.N. King
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of C programming concepts by reading and reviewing this recommended book.
View
C Programming: A Modern Approach, 2nd Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read selected chapters or sections of the book
-
Take notes and summarize the key concepts and examples
-
Discuss the book with classmates or a mentor
Follow tutorials on dynamic memory allocation in C
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of dynamic memory allocation and its applications in C programming.
Browse courses on
Dynamic Memory Allocation
Show steps
-
Find online tutorials or resources on dynamic memory allocation in C
-
Follow the tutorials to learn about malloc(), free(), and other related functions
-
Practice using dynamic memory allocation in your own C programs
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve coding challenges on file handling in C
Show steps
Sharpen your skills in reading, writing, and manipulating files using C.
Browse courses on
File Operations
Show steps
-
Set up a development environment for C programming
-
Find online coding challenges or exercises on file handling in C
-
Solve the challenges and write code to read, write, and manipulate files
Create a visual representation of the memory layout in a C program
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of memory management in C by creating a visual representation of the memory layout.
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
-
Study the memory layout of a C program, including stack, heap, and static memory
-
Use a tool or create your own diagram to visualize the memory layout
-
Explain the memory layout and its implications for C programming
Build a small C program that interacts with the user
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of user interaction and input/output in C by creating a practical program.
Browse courses on
Console Applications
Show steps
-
Design a simple C program that takes user input and performs a specific task
-
Write the C code, including functions for input, output, and calculations
-
Test and debug your program to ensure it runs correctly
Develop a C program to simulate a simple card game
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of C programming to a real-world project by simulating a simple card game.
Show steps
-
Design the game rules and logic
-
Implement the game logic in C, including functions for dealing, playing, and scoring
-
Test and refine your program to ensure it simulates the game accurately
Participate in coding competitions on C programming
Show steps
Challenge yourself and test your C programming skills by participating in coding competitions.
Browse courses on
Coding Challenges
Show steps
-
Find online coding competitions or hackathons focused on C programming
-
Register for the competition and prepare by practicing C programming algorithms and data structures
-
Participate in the competition and try to solve the coding challenges within the time limit
Complete basic C programming exercises
Show steps
Brush up on basic C programming skills to strengthen your foundation for this course.
Browse courses on
C Programming
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic syntax and data types in C
- Practice writing simple C programs using loops and conditionals
- Solve coding exercises on basic C programming concepts
Review the book 'C Programming: A Modern Approach' by K.N. King
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of C programming concepts by reading and reviewing this recommended book.
View
C Programming: A Modern Approach, 2nd Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read selected chapters or sections of the book
- Take notes and summarize the key concepts and examples
- Discuss the book with classmates or a mentor
Follow tutorials on dynamic memory allocation in C
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of dynamic memory allocation and its applications in C programming.
Browse courses on
Dynamic Memory Allocation
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online tutorials or resources on dynamic memory allocation in C
- Follow the tutorials to learn about malloc(), free(), and other related functions
- Practice using dynamic memory allocation in your own C programs
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve coding challenges on file handling in C
Show steps
Sharpen your skills in reading, writing, and manipulating files using C.
Browse courses on
File Operations
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Set up a development environment for C programming
- Find online coding challenges or exercises on file handling in C
- Solve the challenges and write code to read, write, and manipulate files
Create a visual representation of the memory layout in a C program
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of memory management in C by creating a visual representation of the memory layout.
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Study the memory layout of a C program, including stack, heap, and static memory
- Use a tool or create your own diagram to visualize the memory layout
- Explain the memory layout and its implications for C programming
Build a small C program that interacts with the user
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of user interaction and input/output in C by creating a practical program.
Browse courses on
Console Applications
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Design a simple C program that takes user input and performs a specific task
- Write the C code, including functions for input, output, and calculations
- Test and debug your program to ensure it runs correctly
Develop a C program to simulate a simple card game
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of C programming to a real-world project by simulating a simple card game.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Design the game rules and logic
- Implement the game logic in C, including functions for dealing, playing, and scoring
- Test and refine your program to ensure it simulates the game accurately
Participate in coding competitions on C programming
Show steps
Challenge yourself and test your C programming skills by participating in coding competitions.
Browse courses on
Coding Challenges
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online coding competitions or hackathons focused on C programming
- Register for the competition and prepare by practicing C programming algorithms and data structures
- Participate in the competition and try to solve the coding challenges within the time limit
Career center
Learners who complete Interacting with the System and Managing Memory will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists write code to help solve problems. They may create, design, and develop software. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Computer Scientist by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Software Engineer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems from unauthorized access and cyberattacks. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation in memory management for your career as an Information Security Analyst. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Cybersecurity Engineer
Cybersecurity Engineer
Cybersecurity Engineers design, implement, and maintain security controls to protect computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, damage, or disruption. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation in memory management for your career as a Cybersecurity Engineer. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Data Scientist by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers design, develop, and deploy machine learning models to solve complex problems. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Machine Learning Engineer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Backend Developer
Backend Developer
Backend Developers are responsible for the server-side of web applications. They design, develop, and maintain the code that runs on the server. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Backend Developer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Full-Stack Developer
Full-Stack Developer
Full Stack Developers are responsible for both the front-end and back-end of web applications. They design, develop, and maintain the code that runs on the server and the code that runs in the browser. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Full Stack Developer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Front-End Developer
Front-End Developer
Front End Developers are responsible for the user interface of web applications. They design, develop, and maintain the code that runs in the browser. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Front End Developer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Web Developer
Web Developer
Web Developers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining websites. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Web Developer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
System Administrator
System Administrator
System Administrators are responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting computer systems. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a System Administrator by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Database Administrator
Database Administrator
Database Administrators are responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting databases. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Database Administrator by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Security Engineer
Security Engineer
Security Engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining security controls to protect computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, damage, or disruption. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Security Engineer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
Cloud Engineer
Cloud Engineer
Cloud Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining cloud computing systems. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a Cloud Engineer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
DevOps Engineer
DevOps Engineer
DevOps Engineers are responsible for bridging the gap between development and operations. They work to ensure that software is developed and deployed quickly and efficiently. A background in programming is essential. This course may help build a foundation for your career as a DevOps Engineer by giving you a better understanding of memory management. Interacting with the System and Managing Memory covers more sophisticated uses for pointers, such as strings and multidimensional arrays, as well as how to write programs that read and write files and take input from the user.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/sxvtsy/interacting
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Interacting with the System and Managing Memory.
Classic introduction to the C programming language. It covers the basics of the language, including data types, operators, control flow, and functions. It also includes a chapter on pointers and dynamic memory allocation.
Save
Covers advanced topics in C programming, such as bit manipulation, assembly language, and multithreading. It also includes a chapter on debugging.
Save
Collection of common traps and pitfalls in C programming. It provides advice on how to avoid these problems and how to debug them if they occur.
Guide to writing effective and efficient C++ code. It covers topics such as object-oriented programming, templates, and error handling.
Comprehensive guide to computer programming. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic algorithms to advanced data structures.
Guide to the design and implementation of computer systems. It covers topics such as operating systems, computer architecture, and networking.
Guide to the design and implementation of operating systems. It covers topics such as process management, memory management, and file systems.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/sxvtsy/interacting
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 6–8 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Duke University
Instructors
Andrew D. Hilton
Anne Bracy
Genevieve M. Lipp
Language
English
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آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Introductory C Programming. It's comprised of four courses:
- Pointers, Arrays, and Recursion
- Interacting with the System and Managing Memory (viewing)
- Programming Fundamentals
- Writing, Running, and Fixing Code in C
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