This new resource introduces students and researchers to the fundamentals of information technology using easy-to-understand language that provides both a solid background and a deeper understanding and appreciation of this important and evolving subject. As a broad field that encompasses many of the key technologies of the early twenty-first century, information technology is poised to remain a major field of study and professional practice for years to come.

As a broad field that encompasses many of the key technologies of the early twenty-first century, infor mation technology is poised to remain a major field of study and professional practice for years to come. The field will continue to evolve as new developments in the current tech nologies are discovered. Information technologies are also highly dependent on human beings who design, operate, and benefit from them. As such, students and practitioners in the field need to develop both a deep knowledge of the technologies used to store, retrieve, and send information and a strong understanding of humankind's complex rela tionships with information and with the technologies themselves.

Over 120 topics are explored in-depth, including:

Artificial Intelligence
Programming Languages
Cloud Computing
Software Architecture
Debugging
Speech-Recognition Software
Encryption
Virtual Reality

Each entry includes an Abstract that provides a brief, concrete summary of the topic and its significance; a detailed Essay that provides extensive background on the topic and explores its significance to the field of information technology; and a list of Further Reading for those who wish to pursue the topic in more depth. This volume will be an important addition to high school and undergraduate libraries, especially those focused on technology, science, and information studies.

With over 120 essays, this new volume gives readers an overview of the major concepts and contemporary issues surrounding the study of information technology. Designed for students and researchers, this volume provides new ways to think about and study issues, policies, and practices in this field. This will be a helpful addition to science and technology programs at the high school, community college, and university levels, and is a must for STEM students at the high school and undergraduate levels.