Is Math the Main Challenge in Computer Science for Late Starters?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the challenges faced by late starters in computer science, particularly focusing on the role of mathematics in the curriculum. Participants share personal experiences and insights regarding the transition from high school to university-level mathematics and its implications for studying computer science.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Emmanuel expresses concern about the heavy emphasis on mathematics in computer science, noting a significant gap in his math skills since high school.
  • Some participants suggest that computer science is more math-intensive and theoretical than many expect, citing concepts like Turing machines as examples.
  • One participant shares their own experience of returning to studies after a long gap and emphasizes the importance of practicing trigonometry.
  • Several participants mention online resources that could assist in improving math skills, indicating a supportive community approach.
  • There is a light-hearted exchange about a tradition involving favorite fish, which some participants question in relation to the main topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that mathematics is a significant component of computer science, but there are differing views on the extent to which this is understood by newcomers. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to balance programming and theoretical concepts in computer science education.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the steep learning curve associated with mathematics in computer science, and there are indications of varying levels of preparedness among students transitioning from high school.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering or currently pursuing a degree in computer science, especially those who have taken a break from formal education and may be concerned about their math skills.

lalapnt
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hi guys,
i'm new here. this year i started my university degree in computer science. i thought it was going to be more of programming. trust me, i was wrong! everything is MATH! and I'm not so good at it. i finished high school 5 years ago and now doing my first degree. all my math skill vapourised into space and I'm starting all over again. things are difficult but I'm hoping i can find some people to help me pick up. it's difficult competing with the fresh high school students. they know everything! all the trygnometry and proving stuff. i knew them once too but didn't use math for 5 years. so I'm no surprised.

well. I'm here to stay guys. at least till i finish my masters. and with time, i want to help other people as well.

my name is Emmanuel and I'm from Ghana. :D.

EDIT:

i forgot to mention i love math and physics btw.
 
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Well, emmanuel!
You really have to tell us:
What is your favourite fish, before we welcome you here.
 
arildno said:
Well, emmanuel!
You really have to tell us:
What is your favourite fish, before we welcome you here.

fish?! :/
 
That is correct. Fish.
We can't open our arms in welcome for anybody, only those who say what their favourite fish will receive a PROPER welcome at PF! :smile:
 
but what's the connection with fish and math or physics? is this some sort of tradition or what?
 
You will find out! :devil:
 
arildno said:
You will find out! :devil:

haha...we'll see
 
Hi lalapnt. You had best be forthcoming with your favorite fish, these guys are relentless!

I was in the same boat, studying computer science with a long gap between high school and uni. I'm just about to finish my degree and I managed OK with maths although the learning curve was very steep in places. Practise your trig!

There are some great online resources to help you, I found these very useful along with the homework forum here at PF:

Khan Academy
Paul's Online Math Notes
MIT Open Courseware

Study hard, you can do it. :)
 
Hi lalapnt! Wezon! What part of Ghana are you from? I have been to Have, Ho, Accra, Cape Coast and several other small communities. I will be traveling back to Ghana in January to visit the friends I made there.

Welcome to PF! :smile:
 
  • #10
Saladsamurai said:
Hi lalapnt! Wezon! What part of Ghana are you from? I have been to Have, Ho, Accra, Cape Coast and several other small communities. I will be traveling back to Ghana in January to visit the friends I made there.

Welcome to PF! :smile:

hej...nice to see someone who knows my country! I'm very happy! haha. I'm was born in Accra and lived 24 years in accra :D.
 
  • #11
It is a very common mistake to think that computer science just deals with programming. That is completely false. Computer science is very math intensive and quite theoretical. Things like Turing machines, for example, are a very theoretical concept that is studied in computer science and doesn't seem very applicable in programming.
If you want to have more programming and more practical problems, then I suggest you do something like software engineering.
 
  • #12
lalapnt said:
hej...nice to see someone who knows my country! I'm very happy! haha. I'm was born in Accra and lived 24 years in accra :D.

Excellent! Are you attending school in Ghana? Keep working hard. The math can be difficult, but keep at it and ask a lot of questions here at Physics Forums. The people here are very talented and love to help :smile:
 
  • #13
Ahem... let's not forget about the favorite fish... :smile:
 
  • #14
jtbell said:
Ahem... let's not forget about the favorite fish... :smile:

Considering the thread it's most likely the fish that goes with chips

-chips-rubber-or-plastic-fishing-lures-and-computer-chips-in-a-yellow-paper-cone-with-a-17817091.jpg


source
 
  • #15
A bit crunchy for my taste... and too many bones.
 
  • #16
Welcome to PF lalapnt. I too am curious as to what's your favorite fish is?
 

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