Edward Savage <epssyis@gmail.com> wrote:
As many are aware the transition from Information Processing Technology (IPT) to Information Communication Technology (ICT) was completed in most states over half a decade ago. While ICT does cover programming and computer design the focus on 'how computers work' is replaced with 'make computers do work'. The difference is subtle (and I have oversimplified it!) however computer science requires an interest in the lowest levels of computer operation and that is no longer something students are exposed to.
Do you mean assembly language, or do you have something else in mind?
As a result I think that just setting a syllabus that exposes high school students to computer science may not be enough any more. The root causes of why school boards have been moving away from computer science for the last decade are still there. And, those students that do express an interest may find their options for tertiary programs have been greatly reduced.
Could you elaborate those "root causes"? Also, how is the subject treated in countries that rank highest in standardized tests of primary and secondary school educational outcomes? From meory, Finnland, Singapore, Japan, Germany etc., are high on the list, but I haven't read the rankings - this is far outside my areas of central concern - cal it a longstanding interest in education.