The Haskell School Of Expression

This book teaches functional programming using Haskell and examples drawn from multimedia applications.

Functional programming is a style of programming that emphasizes the use of functions (in contrast to object-oriented programming, which emphasizes the use of objects). It has become popular in recent years because of its simplicity, conciseness, and clarity. This book teaches functional programming as a way of thinking and problem solving, using Haskell, the most popular purely functional language. Rather than using the conventional (boring) mathematical examples commonly found in other programming language textbooks, the author uses examples drawn from multimedia applications, including graphics, animation, and computer music, thus rewarding the reader with working programs for inherently more interesting applications. Aimed at both beginning and advanced programmers, this tutorial begins with a gentle introduction to functional programming and moves rapidly on to more advanced topics. Details about progamming in Haskell are presented in boxes throughout the text so they can be easily found and referred to.

Learn functional programming and the Haskell programming language through algorithmic music composition and virtual instrument design.

Computation, itself a form of calculation, incorporates steps that include arithmetical and non-arithmetical (logical) steps following a specific set of rules (an algorithm). This uniquely accessible textbook introduces students using a very distinctive approach, quite rapidly leading them into essential topics with sufficient depth, yet in a highly intuitive manner. From core elements like sets, types, Venn diagrams and logic, to patterns of reasoning, calculus, recursion and expression trees, the book spans the breadth of key concepts and methods that will enable students to readily progress with their studies in Computer Science.

Haskell is one of the leading languages for teaching functional programming, enabling students to write simpler and cleaner code, and to learn how to structure and reason about programs. This introduction is ideal for beginners: it requires no previous programming experience and all concepts are explained from first principles via carefully chosen examples. Each chapter includes exercises that range from the straightforward to extended projects, plus suggestions for further reading on more advanced topics. The author is a leading Haskell researcher and instructor, well-known for his teaching skills. The presentation is clear and simple, and benefits from having been refined and class-tested over several years. The result is a text that can be used with courses, or for self-learning. Features include freely accessible Powerpoint slides for each chapter, solutions to exercises and examination questions (with solutions) available to instructors, and a downloadable code that's fully compliant with the latest Haskell release.