Tuesday, 19 February 2008

computer science doesnt get its due



Computer Science doesn't get it's due

A common misconception of the field of technology is that we who are

in it are all the same. Unless you're a Computer Scientist or an IT

professional yourself, there seems to be this overwhelming conviction

that one is as good as the other which has lead to the general label

of "Computer Guy".

Many find the labelling offensive. Maybe offensive is too strong a

word, but the stereotype attached to this label in no way reflects the

true knowledge, understanding and maturity that one must posses in

order to acquire even the smallest of qualifications at a professional

level. To class a computer scientist in the same way you'd refer to

your neighbourhood computer wiz-kid is like mentioning Evel Knievel in

the same sentence as your 5 yo on a three wheeler.

I too am guilty of such generalisations within other disciplines. I

refer to anyone who deals with vision as an eye doctor; anyone who

deals with teeth a dentist; and anyone who cuts you open a surgeon. I

have no time to take note of the distinction so I suppose I should not

expect anything more of others.

File this under pet peeves that will probably never be addressed, but


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