CI Pathways: Intro to Parallel Computing

This session covers the basics of parallel computing, starting by exploring its definition and importance, describing how it differs from serial computing, and its significant real-world applications and benefits. Then it provides an overview of high-performance computing (HPC) architectures, including clusters and supercomputers, and introduces the concepts of multi-core processors and GPUs. Popular parallel programming languages and libraries like MPI, OpenMP, and CUDA are also covered. Finally, the session includes a hands-on introduction to using NCSA's Delta Cluster, where participants can practice essential Linux commands and apply their newfound knowledge in a practical setting.