Computers Are Your Future, Introductory

Catherine LaBerta is a Full Professor in the Computer Science/Mathematics Department at Erie Community College in Buffalo, NY.  She is also an adjunct professor at SUNY-Buffalo.  Catherine teaches courses that range from Intro to Computers to Programming in C++ to Web Development.  Originally a math major, Catherine took additional courses in computers and programming and found a field that clicked for her.  She enjoys the constant changes in the computer and related fields as it forces one to keep up and constantly learn.  Not a total book worm, she loves skiing in Purgatory, CO, one of her favorite spots. She also enjoys boating—especially schooner trips off the coast of Maine— and will always be working on that golf game.

For introductory courses in computer concepts or computer literacy often including instruction in Microsoft Office.

 

Engages students with a refreshing and easy to learn from style, while maintaining an encyclopedic approach and popular magazine-style format.

 

Today’s students want a practical “what it is” and “how it works” approach to computers and computing, with less explanation of “when and why.” Computers Are Your Future serves as a valuable computer technology reference tool without being overwhelming or intimidating.

NEW! Videos - Short Flash animations were created to explain key concepts in many chapters.

 

NEW! Fast Forward element added to each chapter to address emerging technologies.

 

NEW! How-to feature added to each chapter, providing students with a hands-on exercise related to the information taught in the chapter.

 

NEW! Facebook page is now available for the text.

 

Green Tech Tips - Sidebars with tips, suggestions, and new ways to stay ecologically friendly.

    o  This is the first computer concepts book to incorporate this feature.

 

EthicsBoxes - Sidebars posing “What would you do?” questions to provoke discussions.

    o   Stimulate ethical discussions in class.

 

Visually stimulating Spotlight features–Emerging Technologies, Buying and Upgrading Your Computer System, and File Management.

    o  Highlights innovative thinking in each subject area with “bites” of computer content.

    o  NEW! Spotlight on Cloud Computing

 

Currents boxes throughout–Includes Technology Debates and Milestones, Security Careers, Ethics, Privacy, Piracy, Communication, and Wireless Technology.

    o  Examines issues in computing as well as cutting-edge computer technology to show students what is going to change the face of computing by the time they become professionals.

 

Impacts boxes–Illustrate chapter-by-chapter insights on thought-provoking cultural and societal implications of computing.

    o  Stimulate class discussion or team debates on all aspects of the impact technology is having on life today.

 

Extensive end-of-chapter material.

    o  Provides students with substantial review including multiple choice, matching, fill-in, and short answer questions, as well as exercises and Web Research projects.