The Magic Touch - Thesis Proposal Example

The Magic Touch Thesis: In hopes of pursuing (or at least appreciating) a career in computer programming in the United States, it is beneficial to understand the (I) education/training required, (II) great job options, and (III) the future outlook of the career. I. First, it is necessary to recognize the educational requirements and training preferred by employers. A. Many, if not all, employers require at least an associate’s degree in computer science--which can be earned at many two-year (community) colleges (“Computer”). B. Although having an associate’s degree in computer science shows poise and commitment, having a bachelor’s degree (earned through a four-year college) is preferred by employers (“Computer”). C. A master’s degree (obtained through graduate school) can help “enhance a student’s marketability upon graduation, signaling to potential employers a higher level of knowledge and training” (“Online”). D. Aside from the degrees, employers want to see potential employees have hands-on experience in a related job field. 1. A possible internship that can bolster a potential employee’s resume is as a software development engineer. 2. Another possible internship that gives graduates and undergraduates an advantage is web developing. II. Second, pursuing a career in computer programming and having experience handling computer software can lead to great job options. A. One good job that can be obtained through the knowledge of computer programming is computer systems programmer/analyst (Prendergast). 1. One positive aspect of working as a computer systems programmer/analyst that can be achieved through extensive training and experience is the high annual salary. 2. A potential con of working as a computer systems programmer/analyst may be long work hours (“Computer Systems”); nonetheless, if the commitment to achieving a lifelong dream of working as a computer systems programmer/analyst can be made, then long work hours should be worth the time. B. Another quality career/job one can pursue through the likes of computer programming is software application developer (Greer). 1. The potential of having spectacular financial success in mobile applications is seen as a potential positive of pursuing a career as a software application developer. 2. Unstable school, job, or social media activities can scare potential employers away--specifically in this career field because security is more important than most jobs (Greer). III. Lastly, one must consider the short-term and long-term outlook of the future of computer programming. A. What can be defined as short term in a lengthy career varies, but in this case short-term classifies between five to seven years, which happens to not look so good in terms of job opportunity; employment is expected to decrease by eight percent (United States). B. Aspiring computer programmers should have nothing to fear in the long-term future as the United States (and people in general) will become more reliant on computers and technology to prosper and survive. Name # May 16, 2017 Paper 3 Grade Draft The Magic Touch The year is 2067; world peace has been achieved through a universal internet network. A computer programmer, who goes by no name other than the one given at birth, has developed a revolutionary technology capable of connecting every person in the world to one another, without middlemen or censors. Started in a lab at Google Headquarters, a world, inside a world, exists where human beings can be exactly that--human beings. With few violence outbreaks, universal education, lack of hunger and squalor, and wide-spread equality, the idea is not a video game. It is a reality on Earth achieved through computer programming. An unlikely hero, finger-tips have saved the world. World peace was obtained because of a computer programmer? Believing that hatred derived from ignorance, in order to spread ideas of unity and peace, the computer programmer used the best tools available--hands and brain--to create a network where people have become civil and share cultural ideas without the ridiculous backlash of ignorance or racial slurs. With this technology, people have realized that humans are more alike than they are different. The programmer has lived a life of fulfillment; all possible achievements and accolades (working at Google, solving world peace, etc.) have been obtained, and now this computer programmer lives in bliss, having achieved a life’s dream. To understand computer programming is to understand how and why computers do what they do. The future is in the palm of the people’s hands--literally; endless universes, unlimited knowledge, and unending experiences can be achieved through the power of technology. It is amazing to see happiness derived from a piece of technology! Also, the endless possibilities for the advancement of technology spark more excitement and talk. However, computers do not build or program themselves; the people behind the technology are intelligent and provide examples of persistence and of faith--faith in their own ability to change the world one spark (or code) at a time. In hopes of pursuing (or at least appreciating) a career in computer programming in The United States, it is beneficial to understand the (I) education/training required, (II) possible jobs, and (III) the future outlook of the career. First, as with any potential career, it is necessary to recognize the educational requirements and training preferred by employers. It is expected of many, if not all, computer programmer employers to require at least an associate’s degree in computer science--which can be found in many two-year (community) colleges (“Computer"). Having an education is essential in today’s workforce because without a degree, the likeliness of finding any good job (let alone a computer programming job) is significantly lessened. Although some computer information systems classes may be offered by local high schools, employers want to see some form of higher education because colleges teach more “complex subjects” with much more focused material: programming languages, web design, and troubleshooting (Kay; “Generations”). As seen on computerscienceonline.org, many community colleges stress the importance of networking and the ability to find opportunities for training through computer science programs such as ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology)(“Online”). Unsurprisingly, as competition in the workforce grows, the requirements for entry-level jobs get more demanding, and the more education a resume shows, the more an employer will feel intrigued (Kay). Although having an associate’s degree in computer science shows poise and commitment, having at least a bachelor’s degree (earned through a four-year college) is preferred by employers (“Computer”). Four year universities give a more hands-on experience with computer science and thoroughly cover computer programs/systems, algorithms, and software development (“Computer”; Prendergast). With a bachelor’s degree, an employee has more versatility with computer applications and technology. A bachelor’s degree requires extensive work and plenty of research; after obtaining an associate’s degree, ideally, one can obtain a bachelor’s degree in as little as eighteen months (“Online”). A bachelor’s degree can be seen as a glorified associate’s degree in some cases, but employers generally believe a bachelor’s degree in computer science shows versatility and utility (Kay; Maceli and Burke), thus increasing the odds of being hired over those with only an associate’s degree. Although not necessary, but most certainly helpful, a master’s degree (obtained through graduate school) can help “enhance a student’s marketability upon graduation, signaling to potential employers a higher level of knowledge and training” (“Online”). Common coursework includes programming language, computer networks, computability and algorithms, software development process, and high performance computer architecture--all of which are beneficial in developing problem-solving skills and enable students to manage computers on a highly technical level. A recent study in 2013 showed those with master’s degrees earned “38 percent more than those with only a bachelor’s degree” at an average of a $59,133 entry-level annual salary compared to $42,850 (“Online”). Because the field of computer science is so competitive, a master’s degree can prove to be beneficial by providing more education, more experience, more income, and higher chances of employment than those with only a bachelor’s degree. Aside from the degrees, employers want to see potential employees have hands-on experience in a related job field. A possible internship opportunity that can bolster a potential computer programmer’s resume is working as a software development engineer. According to indeed.com, a site used to help career building, minimum qualifications (which may vary) for internships include programming language experience, authorization to work in the U.S., and active pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in computer science. The internship would “cover a wide range of software development tasks, including requirements gathering, writing design document, task management, test case generation, prototyping, and reporting out to other teams” (“Software Development”). Another possible internship that gives graduates and undergraduates a work experience advantage is web developing. With a more demanding (although not always the case) minimum qualification list, interns must be currently enrolled in a four-year university pursuing at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or math and have expertise in JavaScript (programming language), great verbal and written communication skills, general understanding of version control, proactive/innovative mindset, and ability to multitask (“Web”). Although the qualifications may be demanding, the reward is notable because the web-developing internship will provide great experience in gathering requirements and developing code, and working with senior managers is always beneficial because of the lessons and advice that can be given throughout the internship (“Web”). Second, pursuing a career in computer programming and having experience handling computer software can lead to great job options. One good job that can be obtained through the knowledge of computer programming is computer systems programmer/analyst (Prendergast). One positive aspect of working as a computer systems programmer/analyst that can be achieved through extensive training and experience is the high annual salary: up to $135,450 (“Computer”). As is the case with any job related to computer science, an advanced degree “further increases the chance of finding a good job.” A computer systems programmer/analyst has the duty of designing a new computer system or upgrading an old system in order to “meet changing business needs” (“Computer”). Normally, computer systems programmers/analysts work in an office environment but can be called upon to travel to seminars and trade shows (“Computer”). Technology is always changing, so it is a good practice for computer systems programmer/analysts to keep up with the evolving inventions. However, because technology is constantly revolutionized, long work hours are the price for staying current in the field. Nonetheless, if the commitment to achieving a lifelong dream of working as a computer systems programmer/analyst can be made, then long work hours should be worth the time. Also, most computer systems programmers/analysts are hired from “lower-level positions within the same company” because of the experience in the computer systems (“Computer”; “Programming”). A career as a computer systems programmer/analyst is intriguing because job opportunities are expected to increase more rapidly than the average for all jobs in the next seven years (“Computer”). Another quality career/job one can pursue through computer programming is software application developer (Greer). The potential of having spectacular financial success in mobile applications is seen as a positive of pursuing a career as a software application developer. With an annual salary ranging from $57,340 to $175,000+, it is easy to see why a career as a software application developer is so intriguing (“Software”). However, with a large salary comes a large responsibility. Not only does a software application developer have to be advanced in programming and design, but there is also a great stress on social awareness (“Software”). In order to be successful in software development, generally one must appeal to the wants of the people and get attention and support through social media. Unstable school, job, or social media activities can scare potential employers away--specifically in this career field because security is more important than most jobs (Greer). The field of software application development is incredibly competitive, leading many people to freelance instead of working for one employer; as a freelancer, separation from the crowd is important, but risky--not many ideas are successes, which can be mentally draining after repeated failure (“Software”). However, although the software application development field is competitive, employment in the near future is expected to increase at a rate higher than the average for all jobs (“Software”; Greer). Lastly, one must consider the short-term and long-term outlook of the future of computer programming. Typically, what can be defined as short-term varies, but in this case short-term classifies between five to seven years, which happens to not look so good in terms of job opportunity; employment is expected to decrease by eight percent (United States). Computer programming jobs may be on the decline in the short-term future, but the opportunities are endless because of the versatility of computer science and the evolution of technology; having the ability to read and write programming language, alone, provides an employee with endless job opportunities. A computer science degree opens the window of opportunity--unemployment is minimal for those with the degree (“Programming”). The projected statistics provided by the United States’ Department of Labor do not account for new companies; they are based on existing conditions, so the short-term future may be better than expected. Aspiring computer programmers should have nothing to fear in the long-term future as the United States (and people in general) will become more reliant on computers and technology to prosper and survive. Years ago, an eight-megabyte memory card could barely fit in the palm of a hand; now, a 128-gigabyte memory chip can be placed on the tip of a finger. Technological advancements cannot be denied, nor should they be halted; instead, more jobs should be created by the development of future computers and the programs computers require. Also, the costs associated with outsourcing computer programmers are increasing, which can lead to companies hiring more employees (“Programming”). Of course, the future is speculation; however, current trends indicate a prosperous future for those in the computer science fields. In conclusion, it is essential to understand the education/training required, possible jobs, and the future outlook of computer programming for those who may want to pursue a career as a computer programmer (or just have a better understanding). Although some statistics may scare potential employees about the future of computer programming, students should place hope in the career of computer programming because of the endless opportunities presented with a computer science degree. The door of opportunity is never closed. The programmer who created the network of the future never lost hope and proceeded to change the lives of many. The programmer could be the author or reader of this essay. Although 2067 is fifty years away, dreams are not fulfilled immediately, and the passionate pursuit of dreams can ultimately make them come true. Word Count: 1,955 Works Cited "Computer Systems Programmer/Analysts." Ferguson's Career Guidance Center, 2016, Facts On File, Inc., fcg.infobase.com/recordurl.asp?aid=18478&id=278651. "Generations, Languages." Computer Sciences, edited by K. Lee Lerner and Brenda Wilmoth Lerner, 2nd ed., vol. 1: Foundations: Ideas and People, Macmillan Reference USA, 2013, pp. 91-95. Gale Virtual Reference Library, proxylib.msjc.edu/login?url=http:/ /go.galegroup.com/ps/i.do?p=GVRL&sw=w&u=msjacintocc&v=2.1&id=GALE%7CCX2761000033&it=r&asid=0d8469a254b03162538f1b884ea8e6a8. Greer, David. "Software Developer Profession Expanding." IEEE Software 23.2 (2006): 112-115. ProQuest, Apr. 2017, proxylib.msjc.edu:2070/computing/docview/215840325/abstract/A6B2CF5DB29545A7PQ/17?accountid=39013. Kay, Sheryl. "The Search for Programming Talent - A Management Perspective." Data Management 23.1 (2014): 36. ProQuest, proxylib.msjc.edu:2070/computing/docview/195692833/E488859D139E4D3CPQ/2?accountid=39013. Accessed 16 April 2017. Maceli, Monica and John J. Burke. "Technology Skills in the Workplace: Information Professionals' Current Use and Future Aspirations." Information Technology & Libraries, vol. 35, no. 4, Dec. 2016, pp. 35-62. EBSCOhost, doi:10.6017/ital.v35i4.9540. “Online Master's Degrees in Computer Science.” Computer Science, 2016, www.computerscienceonline.org/degree-programs/masters/. Accessed 14 Apr. 2017. Prendergast, Denise. "Computer Systems Analyst." Mathematics, edited by Mary Rose Bonk, 2nd ed., vol. 1, Macmillan Reference USA, 2016, pp. 143-144. Gale Virtual Reference Library, proxylib.msjc.edu/login?url=http://go.galegroup. com/ps/i.do?p=GVRL&sw=w&u=msjacintocc&v=2.1&it=r&id=GALE%7CCX3630100066&asid=b3f8823de24f7d4f3317a2f601400a30. Accessed 20 Apr. 2017. “Programming.” Computer Sciences, edited by K. Lee Lerner and Brenda Wilmoth Lerner, 2nd ed., vol. 2: Software and Hardware, Macmillan Reference USA, 2013, pp. 200-202. Gale Virtual Reference Library, proxylib.msjc.edu/login?url =http://go.galegroup.com/ps/i.do?p=GVRL&sw=w&u=msjacin tocc&v=2.1&it=r&id=GALE%7CCX2761000136&asid=5619ce06f270a3b2b2765b40769e71a1. "Software Application Developers." Ferguson's Career Guidance Center, Feb. 2017, Facts On File, Inc., fcg.infobase.com/recordurl.asp?aid=18478&id =280487. Accessed 16 Apr. 2017. “Software Development Engineering (Paid) Summer Intern Job - Hiperwall - Irvine, CA.” Indeed.com, www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=b26fe4eb9174e4fc&qd=B45NM1ImhbIaM8lCHwRQwtpRRPr4x7hEKIdzfyFKYFRD1JDBwXQnhCl3HKv6Zvy473UhJnmvUozHabKlAwp7hgBXxmWqM2HE_pLLZtMwBGM&atk=1bf971gfg5t4mc80&utm_source=publisher&utm_medium=organic_listings&utm_campaign=affiliate. Accessed 1 May 2017. United States, Department of Labor, Employment Projections program. “Occupations with the Largest Job Declines.” Bureau of Labor Statisitics, 14 April 2017, www.bls.gov/emp/ep _table_106.htm. “Web Developer Internship - Summer 2017 -- NY Job - Gannett - New York, NY.” Indeed.com, www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=f3ca4926749da042&qd=B45NM1ImhbIaM8lCHwRQwtpRRPr4x7hEKIdzfyFKYFRD1JDBwXQnhCl3HKv6Zvy473UhJnmvUozHabKlAwp7hgBXxmWqM2HE_pLLZtMwBGM&atk=1bf971gfg5t4mc80&utm_source=publisher&utm_medium=organic_listings&utm_campaign=affiliate. Accessed 1 May 2017. Read More