Top Resources to Learn How Computers Work: A Guide for Students and Teachers

Introduction:

In response to popular questions about understanding computers and the basics of computer architecture, here is a curated list of resources to help students and teachers dive into the fundamentals. Since many schools block Reddit, this post consolidates highly recommended books, websites, and videos that appeared in a recent Reddit post here, which inspired this list and provided some of the initial recommendations. Over time, I’ll update this list, adding and refining resources to keep it valuable for middle and high school students and educators alike.

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Recommended YouTube Channels & Playlists for Visual Learning

1. Ben Eater’s 8-bit Breadboard Computer Series

   • Watch on YouTube
   • A great series for beginners, showing step-by-step how to build a simple computer using breadboard circuits.

2. Computerphile

   • Computerphile Channel
   • Covers a wide range of computing topics, breaking down complex concepts into understandable segments.

3. Core Dumped

   • Core Dumped Channel
   • Takes viewers from the basics of electronics and programming, making it accessible for beginners.

4. CrashCourse Computer Science

   • CrashCourse Playlist
   • A full computer science course with engaging infographics, ideal for high school students and visual learners.

5. Geoffrey Messier’s Computer Architecture Playlist

   • View Playlist
   • Aimed at explaining the journey from binary (0s and 1s) to fully functional computer processors.

6. Sebastian Lague & Mattbatwings

   • Great for exploring computer architecture through engaging projects, such as building Minecraft-based computers. 

Essential Books and Websites for Computer Science Beginners

1. CODE by Charles Petzold (Amazon)

   • A beginner-friendly book that explains computing concepts from the ground up, ideal for gaining a foundational understanding.

2. Nand2Tetris

   • nand2tetris.org
   • A step-by-step course where you learn how computers work by building one yourself, from hardware to operating systems.

3. The Micro Revolution by Peter Laurie (Amazon)

   • A historical look at computing that shows how early microcomputers evolved, providing context for today’s technology.

4. Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs (SICP) (Amazon)

   • Read Online
   • This classic book introduces computational structures, suited for advanced students interested in programming theory.

5. NandGame

   • nandgame.com
   • An interactive game for designing logic gates and building processors, perfect for hands-on learners.
6. The Pattern on the Stone by Daniel Hillis (Amazon). A concise and approachable introduction to the principles of computer science, covering topics from binary logic to advanced computing.
7. But How Do It Know? - The Basic Principles of Computers for Everyone (Amazon). A clear and accessible guide to understanding how computers work at a basic level, without requiring advanced knowledge.
8. Digital Logic Sim (DLS). Try on itch.io

A free tool with exercises introducing the basics of digital logic, suitable for learners wanting to experiment with computer fundamentals.

 

 Advanced Learning Resources

1. Understanding Marr’s Three Levels of Analysis

   • Read here
   • Breaks down computing abstractions and how they fit into larger systems.

2. Computer Systems: A Programmer’s Perspective (Amazon)

   • An in-depth textbook on computer architecture, system software, and networking, designed for advanced learners.

3. Computer Architecture by Hennessy & Patterson (Amazon)

   • Available on Google Books
   • A classic text offering detailed insights into computer architecture, suitable for those interested in a deeper dive.

Games & Interactive Learning Tools

1. Turing Complete
   • Available on Steam
   • This interactive game teaches computer architecture by challenging players to build a computer using logic gates. It’s available for around $20 and is a fun, hands-on way to learn.

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This post will evolve as new resources emerge. Feel free to reach out if you have questions or suggestions on other resources for learning computer architecture and system basics!