Exploring Computer Science: What a 16-Year-Old Should Know
Introduction to Computer Science
Is a computer science degree the right path for you? Finding your passion and interest in a field is crucial, especially if you're 16. This article provides a roadmap for exploring computer science, including numerous resources and practical steps to help you decide if this field aligns with your interests.
Initial Exposure: Take CS50 on edx
One of the simplest and most effective ways to explore computer science is to take the Harvard CS50 course on edx. This course offers an introduction to the fundamental aspects of computer science, covering web and app development. Whether this is all you need to decide is up for debate, but the course provides a solid foundation of knowledge and practical experience.
Understanding the Underpinnings of Computer Science
Computer science is much more than just gaming or manipulating software. It involves understanding the design and internal working processes of software. This is why logical abilities and deep thinking are crucial. If you enjoy coding, then a career in computer science might be right for you. However, a love for coding alone might not be sufficient to factor in the complex nature of computer science.
The Importance of Logical Thinking and Mathematics
Computer science heavily relies on logical thinking and basic mathematics. If you feel comfortable with these domains, you may find the transition into computer science less challenging. Keep in mind that coding is just one aspect of computer science; you will also delve into areas such as networks security, artificial intelligence, IoT, and machine learning. As you progress, you will discover your true interest within the vast field of computer science.
Practical Steps to Explore Computer Science
Read a University-Level Textbook
Get a university-level computer science textbook and dive into it. Reading a textbook provides a structured approach to understanding the theory and practical application of computer science. As you read, practice writing some code and assess whether you enjoy the process.
Follow Online Tutorials
The FreeCodeCamp website offers numerous tutorials on web development. Start with a beginner’s course in JavaScript and see if you enjoy the experience. Following these tutorials will help you get hands-on experience and decide if computer science is a field you're passionate about.
Study Existing Programs
Explore programs that you find interesting and study how they work. Extend these programs to do more. This approach helps you understand good code and provides a practical perspective on software development. Writing from scratch can be challenging, but extending existing programs is often more straightforward.
Further Reading and Learning Resources
To gain a deeper understanding of the broader implications of computer science, consider reading books, watching relevant documentaries, and even delving into fiction that explores technological themes. Here are some recommendations:
The Victorian Internet: Provides insight into the history of telecommunications. The Soul of a New Machine: A fascinating look at the creation of a computer. The Mythical Man Month: Reflects on the challenges of software project management. Longitude: Discusses the historical quest for accurate longitude. Blink by Malcolm Gladwell: Explores how we make decisions in a split second. The Short History of Nearly Everything - Bryson: Offers a broad overview of scientific discoveries.Additionally, you can watch inspiring documentaries like:
The Imitation Game: About the life of Alan Turing and his contributions to code-breaking. Apollo 13: A true story of the failed mission that turned into a remarkable success. Hidden Figures: Celebrates the contributions of African American women to space technology.For practical guidance, explore YouTube videos, articles, and books about problem-solving and software design. Examples include:
YouTube: Nightline - The Shopping Cart: A company challenged to redesign the humble shopping cart. Magazine Articles: They Write the Right Stuff - a 1990s piece on the Space Shuttle’s software. Articles: Code as Design - essays by Jack W Reeves. Fiction: The Hound of the Baskervilles - Arthur Conan Doyle's classic mystery. Fiction: The Moon is a Harsh Mistress - Robert Heinlein's exploration of space colonization.Lastly, study the works of some of the luminaries in computer science:
Ada Lovelace: A pioneer in the field of computer programming. Alan Turing: The father of modern computing and code-breaking. Grace Hopper: Developed the first compiler and coined the term “bug.” Margaret Hamilton: Led the development of the onboard flight software for the Apollo 11 mission.The source code for the Lunar Lander’s Guidance System is freely and publicly available on the Internet, making it an invaluable resource for learning and inspiration.
Conclusion
Exploring computer science as a teenager is both exciting and rewarding. By taking courses like CS50, reading books, following online tutorials, and studying the works of key figures in the field, you can gain a solid foundation of knowledge and practical experience. Remember, the journey of discovering your passion is a personal one. Embrace the process, and you'll be well on your way to making an informed decision about your future.