Social Relevance of Computer Science
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IntroductionThe importance of computer science has never been greater and society is just discovering new ways to build small useful devices that require software. Just about anything electronic that is used to today requires software inside. New technologies require innovation in the way computer science delivers solutions to enable these technologies.
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Why Computer Science
You may have wondered why you would pursue a career in Computer Science when there are so many other interesting career choices out there. The thought of sitting behind a computer for long periods of time writing code doesn’t sound like a dream job. So why would anyone consider studying in this field? Well, that is an excellent question. There are many areas where computers are making a real difference in people's lives.
Computer Science is at the center in a wide variety of cutting edge technologies in society: Medical technology, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, robotics, nanotechnology, particle physics, and speech recognition are just some of the areas where computer science is making a real difference.
As an example in the medical field, computer science is responsible for everything from controlling delivery systems in radiation therapy for cancer patients, to storing a patient's complete electronic health record. The vast quantities of stored data will enable outcome and evidence based care, enabling physicians to treat patients with the best available information.
Can you imagine what it would be like to not have a cell phone? Computer Science has affected not only the electronics of the phone and the physics of radio frequency transmission but also the software that control the switching networks that allow one phone to connect to another. What would you do if you couldn't text message your BFF (best friend forever)?
There are very few things in life where computer science has not had an impact. The social relevance of computers is found in everyday items such as phones, tv's, and cars. Without computers and the science behind them, a lot of the technologies we currently take for granted would not exist.
