May 1, 2024
Updated May 11, 2025
24 minute read
Higher-order functions are a fundamental concept in computer science, particularly prominent in functional programming paradigms. At a high level, a higher-order function is a function that can either take other functions as arguments or return a function as its result. This capability allows for more abstract and expressive code, enabling developers to write more modular, reusable, and concise programs.
ppqpia|
Find a path to becoming a Higher-Order Functions. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/ppqpia/higher
Reading list
We've selected 29 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
Higher-Order Functions.
An updated edition of the popular book on functional programming in Scala, this version includes coverage of Scala 3 and new exercises. It's an excellent resource for those wanting to learn or update their knowledge of functional programming in a modern, industry-relevant language.
Provides a comprehensive overview of higher-order functions (HOFs) in Swift, covering concepts such as function types, closures, currying, and function composition. It is an excellent resource for developers looking to master HOFs in Swift.
Offers a beginner-friendly and engaging introduction to Haskell, a purely functional programming language. It covers higher-order functions early on and uses creative examples to solidify understanding. It's an excellent resource for those new to functional programming concepts and Haskell.
Comprehensive guide to functional programming in Scala, a language that blends object-oriented and functional paradigms. It covers higher-order functions and their practical applications in building scalable and robust applications. It's well-suited for programmers with some prior experience.
This more recent iteration of Richard Bird's work on functional programming with Haskell, emphasizing mathematical reasoning about functional programs. It's suitable for those who want to deepen their theoretical understanding of functional programming and its relationship to mathematics.
A classic textbook that provides a solid introduction to functional programming using Haskell. It covers the core concepts, including higher-order functions, with rigor and clarity. is suitable for undergraduate students and those seeking a formal introduction.
Explores the intersection of functional programming and Domain-Driven Design using F#. It showcases how functional concepts, including higher-order functions, can lead to more robust and maintainable domain models. It's relevant for professionals interested in applying functional programming to real-world software design challenges.
Focuses on using Haskell for practical, real-world programming tasks. It demonstrates how functional programming concepts, including higher-order functions, are applied in building applications. It's a good complement to more theoretical introductions.
Aims to make functional programming concepts accessible to developers with an imperative background. It uses a language-agnostic approach with examples in Clojure, but the principles, including higher-order functions, are broadly applicable. It focuses on the thought process behind functional programming.
Focuses on applying functional programming concepts within the Java language, specifically utilizing streams and lambda expressions which are implementations of higher-order functions in Java. It's highly relevant for Java developers looking to use functional styles.
Uses a unique question-and-answer format to teach fundamental programming concepts, including recursion and higher-order functions, using the Scheme programming language. It's a challenging but rewarding read that encourages a deep understanding of foundational principles.
Introduces higher-order functions as a fundamental concept in Haskell and delves into their use in list processing, data structures, and I/O operations. It valuable resource for those interested in learning about HOFs in a purely functional programming language.
Delves into the design and implementation of data structures using purely functional techniques. While not exclusively about higher-order functions, it demonstrates their practical application in building efficient and persistent data structures. It valuable resource for deepening understanding of functional programming principles in a specific domain.
Demonstrates how to apply functional programming techniques, including higher-order functions, in C#. It's a practical guide for C# developers who want to leverage the benefits of functional programming in their projects.
Introduces functional programming concepts, including higher-order functions, using JavaScript and the Underscore.js library. It's a practical guide for JavaScript developers looking to incorporate functional techniques into their codebase.
A follow-up to 'The Little Schemer,' this book delves into more advanced topics in Scheme and functional programming. It continues the question-and-answer format and further explores the power of higher-order functions and related concepts.
Provides a comprehensive overview of higher-order functions in Python, covering topics such as lambdas, decorators, and generators. It offers a practical guide for Python developers looking to master HOFs and leverage their power in their code.
Provides a unique perspective on higher-order functions by exploring their mathematical foundations in category theory. It offers a deeper understanding of the concepts behind HOFs and their applications in programming.
This comprehensive book explores various programming paradigms, including functional programming, using the Oz language. It provides a broad understanding of different computational models and how higher-order functions fit within this wider context.
Authored by some of the creators of the 'Schemer' books, this text explores the fundamental concepts behind programming languages, including the implementation of functional features like higher-order functions. It's a more theoretical book suitable for advanced students.
Introduces higher-order functions in JavaScript, covering topics such as closures, currying, and function composition. It provides practical examples and exercises to help readers master HOFs and apply them in real-world JavaScript applications.
Provides a comprehensive overview of advanced R programming, including a chapter dedicated to higher-order functions. It covers topics such as anonymous functions, closures, and function composition, providing a practical guide for R users looking to enhance their code.
This textbook provides a broad overview of programming language design and implementation, including a discussion of functional programming languages and their features like higher-order functions. It's a good reference for understanding the theoretical underpinnings.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/ppqpia/higher
Save
