Crash Course Computer Science: Introduction

Host Introduction

• Host: Carrie Anne Philbin
• Credentials:
  • Award-winning secondary computing teacher
  • Author of 'Adventures in Raspberry Pi'
  • Creator of Geek Gurl Diaries (YouTube series)
  • Director of Education for the Raspberry Pi Foundation (Cambridge, UK)
• Interests: Passionate about technology, education, digital making

Scope of the Course

• Not Covered:
  • Detailed programming tutorials (e.g., Arduino, CSS)
  • Computing courses as traditionally thought in the U.S. (focus on computing as a goal)
• Covered:
  • History of computers (pre-electricity to present-day components)
  • Operating Systems (functionality and issues)
  • Internet communication (e.g., YouTube delivery)
  • Smart technology (e.g., smartphones)
  • Futuristic tech (quantum computing)
  • Current challenges (hacking)

Importance of Computers

• Roles of Computers in Society:
  • Global telecommunications
  • International commerce
  • Global transportation
  • Medical advancements
  • Distributed education
  • Online shopping and dating
  • Internet exploration
  • Everyday tasks (e.g., pet surveillance, communication)
• Key Message: Computers are not magical; they are tools created from logical design and decisions.

Course Goals

• Main Objective: To provide an understanding and appreciation of computer science history and technology
• Future Insights: Explore potential future advancements in computing

Final Thoughts

• Takeaway: Computers have become pivotal in modern society across various applications
• Next Session: Continuation of the course with deeper exploration of computer science topics