VirtEd

Hollywood Geek Chic Prompts More Computer Science Majors

The New York Times reports in "Hollywood spurs surge in college computer science majors" that geek is chic on campus with the success of "The Social Network" and the iconic status of Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg and Apple's Steve Jobs.

At least students are picking "The Social Network" versus "The Hangover" franchise for its youthful role models - just in time as the US looks to hand off the tech baton to its Asian counterparts.  

Never mind that Mr. Zuckerberg, like other tech titans, did not major in computer science — or even finish college. Enrollment in computer science programs, and degrees from them, are rising after a decade of decreases, despite much handwringing about the decline of American competitiveness in technology and innovation from President Obama on down. And educators and technologists say the inspiration is partly Hollywood’s portrayal of the tech world, as well as celebrity entrepreneurs like Steven P. Jobs of Apple and Mr. Zuckerberg who make products that students use every day.

 

Finn-ishing First: Anti-Race to the Top: "The Finland Phenomenon"

Finland has been putting itself on the map in part due to the excellent performance of its students on global testing - which is ironic as the country de-emphasizes testing.  "The new film "The Finland Phenomenon" examines how they do it.

Compulsory schooling now begins at seven. School is a place where students discover who they are and what they can contribute. National testing and school inspections are banished (teachers are trusted to assess their students). Classroom size has been reduced (limited to 20 students). Students are permitted to transfer to an academic or vocational school at the age of 16, and no university fees are charged for Finnish or European Union students.