IT 2217

INTEGRATIVE PROGRAMMING AND TECHNOLOGIES 1

Precious Joan D. Samson, MIT [email protected]

Course Learning Outcome:

At the end of the semester, the students will be able:

1. Students will apply coding techniques to solve problems across diverse fields such as
science, art, business, and humanities.;
2. Students will demonstrate proficiency in programming languages, tools, and frameworks
relevant to integrative coding projects;
3. Students will design and implement projects that combine creativity and technology, such
as interactive media, generative art, or smart systems; and
4. Students will learn and apply new coding tools or technologies as needed, adapting to the
evolving demands of interdisciplinary fields.
FOUNDATIONS OF INTEGRATIVE CODING

Integrative coding is a programming technique that connects different components of an IT

infrastructure. It uses a variety of technologies and frameworks to create more robust software
systems.

What are the foundations of integrative coding?

➢ Programming languages:

Integrative coding uses multiple programming languages, including scripting languages, to

connect different components.

➢ Technologies and frameworks:

Integrative coding uses technologies like databases, web development frameworks, and
application servers.

➢ Integrated development environments (IDEs):

IDEs can make coding more efficient by helping with error detection and correction.

➢ Cloud computing:

Cloud computing services can help developers release new software more quickly.

➢ Problem-solving:

Coding skills involve breaking down complex tasks into logical steps.

➢ Debugging:

Debugging is a crucial skill that involves detecting and removing errors in code.

What are the benefits of integrative coding?

• Integrative coding can improve operations productivity.

• Integrative coding can help create more robust software systems.
• Integrative coding can help enable secure collaboration between applications.
CODING ACROSS DISCIPLINES

• STEM + Coding:

o Simulating physics in games.

o Machine learning applications in biology.
o Mathematical modeling with code.

• Arts + Coding:

o Generative art using Processing or p5.js.

o Digital storytelling and interactive media.
o Music composition with algorithms.

• Humanities + Coding:

o Analyzing historical texts with natural language processing (NLP).

o Building timelines with visualization tools.
o Interactive educational platforms for history or literature.

• Business + Coding:

o Data visualization for financial forecasting.

o Automating workflows with scripts.
o Customer segmentation using predictive analytics.

PROBLEM SOLVING APPROACH

Integrative thinking is a problem-solving approach that uses opposing ideas to create a

solution. In coding, problem-solving approaches can include breaking down problems, writing
algorithms, and refactoring code.

Problem-solving approaches in coding:

• Break down problems: Break the problem into smaller, more manageable parts.
• Write algorithms: Represent the solution as an algorithm, which is a procedure for solving
the problem.
• Refactor code: Improve the structure of existing code without changing its
functionality. Look for areas of code that are repetitive, complex, or poorly organized.
• Use data structures and algorithms: Use data structures and algorithms to improve a
program's performance.
• Use version control systems: Use a version control system like Git to track history, manage
changes, and merge code.
• Debug: Identify and fix coding errors.
General problem-solving techniques:

• Divide and conquer

"Divide and conquer" is a strategy that involves breaking down a large problem into
smaller problems, solving those smaller problems, and then combining the solutions to
solve the original problem. It can be used in many fields, including politics, economics,
computer science, and mathematics.

• Heuristics

Heuristics are mental shortcuts that people use to make decisions and solve
problems. They are also known as rules of thumb or cognitive shortcuts.

• Recursive thinking

Recursive thinking is the ability to incorporate one idea, process, or representation within
another. It's a key part of human cognition.

• Root cause analysis

Root cause analysis (RCA) is a structured method for identifying the underlying causes of
a problem and developing solutions. RCA is used to address problems after they occur,
rather than just treating the symptoms.

• SWOT analysis

A SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool that helps identify an organization's strengths,
weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. It can help businesses improve, maximize
opportunities, and make better decisions.

• Design thinking

Design thinking is a problem-solving method that focuses on the needs of the user. It's a
human-centered approach that combines the needs of people, technology, and business.

• Six thinking hats

The six thinking hats is a method used to amplify creative conversations, by making sure
that a broad variety of viewpoints and thinking styles are represented. Using six roles (or
"hats"), the framework — developed by Dr. Edward de Bono — allows teams to more
easily structure abstract thinking for productive results.

▪ White: Focus on facts. “This information is not clear to me.”

▪ Yellow: This is the positive view. They focus on the benefits. “It was very
easy to find the search field.”
▪ Black: The devil’s advocate. They focus on risks and weaknesses. “There is
not enough color contrast and it is really hard to read the text on this graphs.”
 ▪ Red: They provide emotional feedback based on intuition. “I don’t like the
animations, it makes me feel distracted.”
▪ Green: They bring news alternatives and concepts not explored yet. “What
about a tooltip to help users to understand the abbreviations on this table?”
▪ Blue: Control the initiative. They help the team to focus on the process and
ensure that the guidelines are followed.

• Value stream mapping

Value stream mapping (VSM) is a technique that helps businesses analyze, design, and
improve the flow of information and materials to deliver a product or service to a customer.

EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN INTEGRATIVE CODING

In the ever-evolving world of technology, coding remains at the core of innovation. As we advance
into the next decade, emerging technologies are reshaping how we approach programming.
Understanding these trends is crucial for anyone looking to stay ahead in the coding world.

Emerging Technologies in Coding

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML are no longer
just buzzwords but are integral to many modern applications. AI-driven tools, from natural
language processing to computer vision, are becoming commonplace. As AI and ML
technologies advance, programmers will need to understand algorithms, neural networks,
and data science principles. Mastering frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch will be
essential.

• Quantum Computing: Quantum computing promises to revolutionize problem-solving

with its ability to process complex calculations exponentially faster than classical
computers. Though still in its infancy, quantum computing is expected to impact
cryptography, optimization, and simulations. Learning quantum programming languages
such as Qiskit or Microsoft’s Q# will be a valuable asset.

• Blockchain and Decentralized Applications (DApps): Blockchain technology

extends beyond cryptocurrencies, offering secure, transparent solutions for various
industries. Understanding smart contracts, decentralized finance (DeFi), and platforms like
Ethereum and Solana is vital for developers interested in this space. Blockchain skills will
become increasingly important as more industries explore decentralized solutions.

• Internet of Things (IoT): IoT connects everyday devices to the internet, enabling smart
homes, cities, and industries. With the proliferation of connected devices, coding for IoT
involves working with sensors, communication protocols, and edge computing. Proficiency
in languages like Python, C++, and IoT platforms such as AWS IoT is becoming
increasingly relevant.
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR are transforming how
we interact with digital content. These technologies are used in gaming, training
simulations, and even remote work. Developers will need skills in 3D modeling, graphics
programming, and AR/VR frameworks like Unity and Unreal Engine to create immersive
experiences.
TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR INTEGRATION

• APIs and Libraries: How to connect different domains (e.g., Google Maps API,
TensorFlow).
• Cross-Platform Development: Unity, Flutter, and React Native.
• Cloud Integration: AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure.

CAREER APPLICATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT

• Interdisciplinary Roles: Data scientists, creative technologists, and computational

linguists.

• Portfolio Building: Showcasing projects that highlight integration.

• Networking: Communities and platforms for interdisciplinary coders.

Summary

Integrative coding is a strategy that combines various programming languages and technologies
to create software programs that can perform a variety of functions. It's a critical part of software
development because it allows developers to take advantage of the unique capabilities of different
technologies and programming languages to create more effective and powerful software.
Integrative programming can also refer to the integration of different components of an IT
infrastructure, such as people, applications, databases, and platforms. This allows for secure
collaboration between applications, both internally and externally.

Some benefits of integrative programming include:

• Enabling real-time data sharing across departments
• Seamlessly updating applications
• Ensuring that disparate systems can trigger actions and exchange data

Common integration methods include: System integration, Functional/technology integration, and

Incremental engineering.