For as long as I can remember, there were four classes that were required in school in America: English, science, math, and social studies. Taking at least one of each type of these classes per year means the State of Indiana thinks you are educated enough to graduate high school. There are other requirements as well: art, physical education, foreign language, etc. The state believes these classes produce a well-rounded student. I believe they are missing a crucial component in the 21st century: a computer science class.
Computers are everywhere in 2018. Cell phones, laptops, menus, billboards, security systems, cars, and many, many more things utilize computers. If you enter the workforce, chances are, you’ll have to use some sort of computer. It is unacceptable then, that in 2018, students graduate high school and move on to college or the workforce and have not taken a computer science class. Even jobs that you would not typically associate with computer science would benefit from making it a requirement.
Take a mechanic for example. Mechanics are trained on how cars work, what different parts do, and how to fix them. However, with more and more hybrids, self-driving cars, and other electronic stabilization and traction control features, cars are becoming closer and closer to computers. Mechanics with previous computer science experience would have a much easier time diagnosing issues, than those without it. Computer science also helps teach logic, troubleshooting, and problem solving. These are universally applicable skills that would benefit students for years after high school.
Concordia is one of the schools leading the charge into offering computer and other technology based classes. Scott Storm teaches three different computer science courses, including two sections of an introductory class that is very popular with students. Also popular among students are Aaron Spencer’s video and media arts courses and Leah Zink’s graphic design courses. The school also offers engineering courses for students that want more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) options.
I encourage your students to enroll in technology classes. They are some of the most enjoyable classes Concordia has to offer, and they teach things that no other class does.
Reese Breischaft,
Computer Science Teaching Assistant