Girls and Computer Science
What Is Computer Science?
Computer science is the study of the theoretical foundations of information and computing. (Wikipedia, Feb 13, 2007) The study of computer science is both one of technology and algorithms. Computer science gives students the skills to understand the increasingly technological world around themselves and how the technology they use daily works. It also gives them the thinking skills and habits of mind to solve problems, primarily using computers. Computer science is not limited to programming but includes understanding hardware, networks, organization of information, problem solving, data types, artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, etc.
Why Is Computer Science Important?
Computer science is an important discipline. As technology becomes an increasing part of life in the 21st century, citizens should have the skills to understand the products they use. In the same way that we expect all high school graduates to have an introductory understanding of science, math, and history, they should have a basic understanding of technology.
Additionally, more jobs require some basic technological understanding; computer science helps prepare students for the workforce. Beyond the technology requirements of any job, there are thousands of unfilled, high-paid technology jobs that our students could be prepared for. These jobs not only benefit our students, but the benefit of a diverse group of minds solving problems is priceless.
Computer science provides logical problem solving skills which are applicable across subject areas. Many disciplines require some knowledge of the specific skills provided in computer science, such as programming. Students' confidence increases when they are successful in computer science. Finally, computer science is an excellent interdisciplinary area. Computer science is helping solve some of the major problems in our world, from robots that can complete dangerous search-and-rescue missions to modelling in order to aid humanitarian relief efforts in the third world.
In many schools, computer science is an elective course. There are many reasons why students, particularly girls, choose not to take computer science classes. The stereotype of the nerdy boy is pervasive in our culture. Computer science classes may be perceived to be too hard or boring. Students may need to be recruited into classes: suggestions for recruitment are available below.
Computer science is more than programming, it includes robotics, hardware, organization of information, web site work, and more. Creating products and tools for people to use is what computer science is all about. There are many ways in which students learn to appreciate and even love computer science. Students should be exposed to a variety of experiences both to break stereotypes about what computer science is and to enjoy class.
