This is a glossary for computer-science related terms. Computer science is the study of computers, computing systems, and how they work. It focuses on both the theory (like algorithms and data structures) and the practical side (like programming, software development, and website making). This glossary contains definitions that can be helpful to better understand computer science concepts.
algorithm
noun
A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.
Example: The Dempster-Shafer approach is a statistically- based classification ALGORITHM used for data fusion.
fr: algorithme
array
noun
A collection of elements of the same data type stored in contiguous memory locations.
Example: Procedure which gets all details about the products and store it in the ARRAY.
fr: tableau
artificial intelligence
noun
The application of computer systems able to perform tasks or produce output normally requiring human intelligence, especially by applying machine learning techniques to large collections of data.
Example: The science of creating machines which can solve problems and reason like humans is usually referred to as ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE.
fr: intelligence artificielle
bug
noun
An error in a computer program or system.
Example: There's a great moment on each question where you press enter after putting in a lot of code or chasing a BUG and it all just works.
fr: bogue
code
noun
program instructions.
Example: Computers have a machine - CODE into which instructions on the program are translated.
fr: code
compiler
noun
A program that converts instructions into a machine-code or lower-level form so that they can be read and executed by a computer.
Example: The programs were compiled using either the 'Intel® Fortran COMPILER' or where MPI was required, the 'Portland Group PGI COMPILER'.
fr: compilateur
data
noun
Facts and statistics collected together for reference or analysis.
Example: To prove that this market conditions affect farmers incomes in Poland is a difficult task, because of the lack of DATA.
fr: données
database
noun
A structured set of data held in a computer, especially one that is accessible in various ways.
Example: So, when an item is added to the DATABASE, the counter increases of 1.
fr: base de données
encryption
noun
The process of converting information or data into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access.
Example: In order to do this Alice and Bob must previously agree on an ENCRYPTION / decryption method and on a key .
fr: chiffrement
function
noun
A basic task of a computer, especially one that corresponds to a single instruction from the user.
Example: The shaped laser pulses interact with a molecular sample and a single valued feedback FUNCTION is returned to the computer .
fr: méthode
hardware
noun
The physical components of a computer system that you can see and touch.
Example: Currently in this "personal computing era", our main means of interacting with computers is via physical HARDWARE-based input control devices such as mouse, keyboard and or possibly graphics tablets.
fr: matériel
interface
noun
A device or program enabling a user to communicate with a computer.
Example: Featuring a 1.3 Megapixel digital camera, Bluetooth wireless INTERFACE, and a memory expansion slot (with which a Sony Memory Stick duo can be used to increase available system memory for storage).
fr: interface
loop
noun
A structure, series, or process, the end of which is connected to the beginning.
Example: Then, the 'for LOOP' will continue by comparing the 2 nd value with the 3 rd one and will do the same until the for LOOP ends.
fr: boucle
machine learning
noun
The use and development of computer systems that are able to learn and adapt without following explicit instructions, by using algorithms and statistical models to analyze and draw inferences from patterns in data.
Example: It is widely used in the science and engineering area, such as innovative design, optimization, MACHINE LEARNING and flexible and adaptive system.
fr: apprentissage automatique
network
noun
A system of two or more interconnected devices that share information and resources.
Example: Thanks to the development of computer technologies, it enables biologists to build up electronic databases with enormous storage capacity, share and transmit information through Internet global NETWORK.
fr: réseau
operating system
noun
The software that supports a computer's basic functions, such as scheduling tasks, executing applications, and controlling peripherals.
Example: For instance, the Linux OPERATING SYSTEM has become reliable and competitive due to efforts exerted to enhance quality and performance from the developing community.
fr: système d'exploitation
programming
noun
The process or activity of writing computer programs.
Example: Computing: Playing games, building computers, learning, PROGRAMMING, surfing the internet: this allows me to stay aware of the latest technologies and enhance my computing skills day after day.
fr: programmation
server
noun
A computer or computer program that manages access to a centralized resource or service in a network.
Example: The display unit should be able to receive information from the SERVER, through the barcode system, and display it appropriately.
fr: serveur
software
noun
The programs and other operating information used by a computer.
Example: Then, Apple iTunes rapidly move to reinforce their brand identity by showing their classical apple logo and iPod trademark on their website and SOFTWARE.
fr: logiciel
variable
noun
A piece of memory that stores a value that can be changed.
Example: Initially, we have the y t VARIABLE, and we create five more, namely Δy t , t, y t-1 , Δy t-1 and Δy t-2.
