Re:I'm graduating with a CS degree but I don't feel like I k...
by kenjackson on Friday February 04, 2011 @10:32AM
(#2179714)
Not expecting a CS alumnus to be a programmer is like having an architect not know how to draw buildings, or a surgeon not know how to wield a scalpel.
You do realize that with both professions you noted there is usually an apprenticeship time (internship/residency) -- and also in both professions you must licensed (in architecture typically after your internship and in medicine before the residency).
I do disagree though that there is no value in not being able to program. The main contribution of CS is not programming. It is in the theory of computation. I really do view programming as purely incidental.
You wouldn't expect a mechanical engineer to know how to repair a 2011 Ford Focus. They'll konw the basic ideas under the hood, but all of the technoogy specific aspects of it shouldn't be taught.
You do realize that with both professions you noted there is usually an apprenticeship time (internship/residency) -- and also in both professions you must licensed (in architecture typically after your internship and in medicine before the residency).
I do disagree though that there is no value in not being able to program. The main contribution of CS is not programming. It is in the theory of computation. I really do view programming as purely incidental.
You wouldn't expect a mechanical engineer to know how to repair a 2011 Ford Focus. They'll konw the basic ideas under the hood, but all of the technoogy specific aspects of it shouldn't be taught.