Computer science is
the study of problem
solving, normally
called algorithms.
believe must) be taught. We expect our
students to grasp basic math, but not
everyone needs calculus. Not everyone
needs to be able to create an operating system or even to write programs in C++, but
today there are very few disciplines that
do not benefit from the ability to design a
problem-solving process in a way that is
so clear even a computer can do it. Managing data and solving complex problems
are among the skills most in demand today. These are exactly the main aspects
of computing.
True computer science is a research
discipline, but there are many other ways
kids can benefit from some flavor of
computer science:
• Applications—If a kid is going to en-
counter computers as a user (and he
will), we have an obligation to ensure
he understands the basic applications
at a user level. All kids should know
how to use a word processor, spread-
sheet, and presentation software.
Career Options in Computing
One of the best reasons to teach computing is its vocational potential. The U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics provides career
projections for various disciplines. They
project 21% growth in computer software
engineering and programming jobs. The
median salary for a software engineer in
2008 was $85,430, and the median wage
for a computer scientist was reported at
$97,980 in May of 2008 (
www.bls.gov/
oco/ ocos303.htm). There are roughly
three jobs for every qualified applicant in
the computing disciplines. Seventy-one
percent of all jobs in the sciences, engineering, technology, and mathematics are
projected to be in the computing sector.
There are a number of career opportunities in programming, and they require
different skills, preparation, and abilities:
• Computer Support—These are the folks
who fix and maintain computing systems. This is one of the few disciplines
in computing that does not require a
college degree, but it does not offer the
high wages and numerous opportunities offered by other forms of computing. About 7% of those in computing
jobs are expected to be in this area.
