TITLE: Computer Science to the Second Degree
AUTHOR: Eugene Wallingford
DATE: June 29, 2018 11:46 AM
DESC:
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BODY:
Some thoughts on studying computer science from
Gian-Carlo Rota:
A large fraction of MIT undergraduates major in computer science or
at least acquire extensive computer skills that are applicable in
other fields. In their second year, they catch on to the fact that
their required courses in computer science do not provide the whole
story. Not because of deficiencies in the syllabus; quite the
opposite. The undergraduate curriculum in computer science at MIT
is probably the most progressive and advanced such curriculum
anywhere. Rather, the students learn that side by side with
required courses there is another, hidden curriculum consisting of
new ideas just coming into use, new techniques and that spread like
wildfire, opening up unsuspected applications that will eventually
be adopted into the official curriculum.
Keeping up with this hidden curriculum is what will enable a
computer scientist to stay ahead in the field. Those who do not
become computer scientists to the second degree risk turning into
programmers who will only implement the ideas of others.
MIT is, of course, an exceptional school, but I think Rota's
comments apply to computer science at most schools. So much
learning of CS happens in the spaces between courses: in the
lab, in the student lounge, at meetings of student clubs, at
part-time jobs, .... That can sometimes be a challenge for
students who don't have much curiosity, or develop one as
they are exposed to new topics.
As profs, we encourage students to be aware of all that is
going on in computer science beyond the classroom and to take
part in the ambient curriculum to the extent they are able.
Students who become computer scientists only to the first
degree can certainly find good jobs and professional success,
but there are more opportunities open at the second degree.
CS can also be a lot more fun there.
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