subject: Interesting Academic Disciplines: Theory Of Computation [print this page] Computer theory is the field of computer science that is connected with such issues as performance levels achieved through the creation of computation models that are also called algorithms. This scientific branch is divided into main streams: complexity theory and computation theory that are both devoted to the study of various techniques of computation. A deeper consideration proves that this discipline can be conquered only by those students who are able to work with complicated mathematical abstractions and model equations.
What should students know to master this science?
1.History
The computation theory refers to the creation of all possible models in the sphere of computer science. In this case the application of logic and mathematics is indispensible. Later on, this branch became bound to independent academic study.
2.Computation theory
This theory is primarily connection of the extent to which the issue is solvable with the help of computer technology. Therefore, the creation of specific algorithms is the parish of this science. The second issues that should be perpetuated in you memory is Rice theorem stating for important properties of partial functions; it is indispensible to computability process.
3.Complexity theory
This sub-category of computation theory is more concerned with the efficiency level of problems solving. This branch also covers the allocation of time and space that is identified by the correspondent specialists.
4.Terminology
Specific terms are an inherent part of each science. In this sphere each specialist should know the following terminology: lambda calculus, combinatory logic, mu-recursive functions, register machines, etc.
Like any other scientific field, computation theory has a bottomless ocean of information and concepts to conceive before conducting independent researchers. Therefore, students who decide to devote their life to this sphere should do their best in mastering this sophisticated discipline.