O’Leary T.J., O’Leary L.I. Computing Essentials 2012 Complete Edition: Making It Work for You

22nd Revised Edition. — McGraw-Hill, 2011. — 547 p. — ISBN10: 0073516805, ISBN13: 978-0073516806.The 20th century brought us the dawn of the digital information age and unprecedented changes in information technology. There is no indication that this rapid rate of change will be slowing—it may even be increasing. As we begin the 21st century, computer literacy is undoubtedly becoming a prerequisite in whatever career you choose.
The goal of Computing Essentials is to provide you with the basis for understanding the concepts necessary for success. Computing Essentials also endeavors to instill an appreciation for the effect of information technology on people and our environment and to give you a basis for building the necessary skill set to succeed in the 21st century.
Times are changing, technology is changing, and this text is changing too. As students of today, you are different from those of yesterday. You put much effort toward the things that interest you and the things that are relevant to you. Your efforts directed at learning application programs and exploring the Web seem, at times, limitless. On the other hand, it is sometimes difficult to engage in other equally important topics such as personal privacy and technological advances.
In this text, we present practical tips related to key concepts through the demonstration of interesting applications that are relevant to your lives. Topics presented focus first on outputs rather than processes. Then, we discuss the concepts and processes. Motivation and relevance are the keys. This text has several features specifically designed to engage and demonstrate the relevance of technology in your lives. These elements are combined with a thorough coverage of the concepts and sound pedagogical devices.Information Technology, the Internet, and You.
The Internet, the Web, and Electronic Commerce.
Basic Application Software.
Specialized Application Software.
System Software.
The System Unit.
Input and Output.
Secondary Storage.
Communications and Networks.
Privacy, Security, and Ethics.
Information Systems.
Databases.
Systems Analysis and Design.
Programming and Languages.
Your Future and Information Technology.
The Evolution of the Computer Age.
The Buyer’s Guide: How to Buy Your Own Microcomputer System.
The Upgrader’s Guide: How to Upgrade Your Microcomputer System.