US Designates Computer Science Education Week
By BYC Newsfeed, On 10/22/09 9:09 PM
The United States House of Representatives has unanimously approved a resolution supporting computer science and the designation of a National Computer Science Education Week. To raise awareness about the challenges facing computer science education, the resolution designates the week of 7 December as National Computer Science Education Week to honor the birthday of Grace Murray Hopper, one of the first female computer scientists. “I am very pleased that today we are considering a resolution which turns our attention to the coming shortage of computer scientists,” said Vernon Ehlers (R-Mich.), vice ranking member of the Committee on Science and Technology, which introduced the resolution.
Ehlers said there is a need for improved research and education, particularly education in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). “I believe these subjects hold special promise for the future of our nation and its workforce, and it is very critical that all of our nation’s students receive a foundation in STEM,” he said. “This prepares students to become the innovators of tomorrow.” According to a study by the Computer Science Teachers Association, even in US schools that employ computer science teachers, only a little more than half of the schools offer introductory courses in computer science, and the number of course offerings are declining.
