pavyedav | boredom and inherent curiosity, in one

Given how dependent we are on our devices (computer, phone, tablet, etc.), I think it’s important that we understand how exactly these devices work. Obviously it would take entire lifespans to comprehend every nook and cranny of how they operate, but more importantly, it’s about knowing how concepts are created in such an abstract field as computer science.

I really had no idea what computer science was until sometime in high school, but that was just “hearing” of it. I actually learned the basics of computer science in college, and that’s only because my major required it. In this increasingly technology-driven world, computer science can’t be a niche subject that only few know. It is imperative that the foundations of the subject be taught at an early age. The next generation will basically be using computers right out of the womb, so it would be a shame if they did not know exactly what went into these devices. Subjects that we learn when we are young stick with us the most, which is why the ideas of computer science need to be taught in elementary school.

Programming is difficult. No one’s saying to teach operating systems or computer security when young, but very simple algorithms, “Hello World” programs, and the components of a computer are as basic as addition and subtraction. Eric Schmidt, ex-Google CEO, made a speech in England recently about how the country was the birthplace of many technological advances, but they have lost traction since they are no longer a leader in any of these fields. He attributes this to a lack of emphasis on teaching computer science in the nation’s schools. 

I think the ability to code and understand the inner workings of a computer are going to be necessities for future generations, even for those who choose to go into the humanities and other fields unrelated to technology. Right now, in many nations, there are courses on how to use software, but not how software is actually made. Learning Microsoft Word will come standard when you actually know how to program off the command line. Not everyone has to make the subject his/her life (it would be a ridiculously boring world if we all did), but it is important that everyone gets a chance to learn the basics of programming and the simple ideas of computer science at a very early age. Just as we dabble all in all of these different areas of science in sixth grade, we should also be forced to dabble in computer science. That’s the only way that students will be excited about the field moving forward. What if no one went into computer science in the future? Life, as we know it, would end, so it’s important to emphasize it early.