Glossary

algorithm

An algorithm is a sequence of instructions on how to carry out a task. For example, a cooking recipe is an analogue algorithm.

algorithmic design

Design based on a defined and logical set of rules.

codesnippet

A small piece of computer code that you can reuse in multiple different programs.

encaustic cement tiles

Tiles made from different colours of clay, rather than different colour glazes.

function

In terms of computing, a function is a block of code that carries out a specific purpose. In terms of space, the function is the activity or operation that a space or object has.

parameters

In coding, a parameter is a variable listed inside parentheses in the function definition. See also function, variables.

program

In computing, an ordered sequence of instructions that instructs a computer in how to perform a specific task.

RGB

In screen-based technologies – red, green, blue colours can be combined to create many other colours.

stroke

In vector and raster drawing, stroke is the thickness of a drawn line that mimics the equivalent in the use of physical media, such as brushes and pens.

variables

A variable is a piece of data that code can store and change. Variables can hold different types of data, but in our examples, we are only using them to store numbers.

vertex

In vector drawing, the point at which a line changes direction.