[Computer Science] Computer Organization: Transistors to Assembly – A Bottom-Up View of Computer Science

Description of the Resource:

This OER for computer organization courses explores the evolution of computing from ancient tools to modern microprocessors, emphasizing key developments like Ada Lovelace’s work, the invention of vacuum tubes, and stored-program computers. The book also highlights diversity initiatives like Black Girls Code (BGC) and the Coalition to Diversify Computing (CDC), alongside professional organizations like the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM).

The “Foundations” section covers pioneers such as Turing, von Neumann, and Shannon, essential number systems (decimal, binary, hexadecimal), and the basics of digital circuits, including truth tables, transistors, and various types of circuits.

The “Assembly” section offers a practical guide to LC3Tools, covering installation, usage, and assembly instructions for registers, ALU operations, subroutines, and branching. It explains the von Neumann model, program flow types, I/O, and stack implementation.

How This Resource Integrates Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Principles and Practices:

The contents of this resource underscores the contributions of underrepresented groups and promotes inclusive practices within the field of computer science. Highlighting initiatives such as Black Girls Code (BGC) and the Coalition to Diversify Computing (CDC), the book showcases efforts to engage and support diverse populations in computing. It also discusses the role of organizations like the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) in fostering a more inclusive environment.

The book includes profiles of influential figures from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing their contributions and the barriers they overcame. By integrating DEI principles throughout the historical and conceptual discussions, the textbook aims to inspire a new generation of computer scientists to value and promote diversity within their own practices and communities.

Course logo by Karl Dawson is licensed Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0.