Konsep Inti
There is significant variability in the math requirements and placement across computer science bachelor's degree programs in the U.S., with little consensus on which math courses are needed for success in the field.
Abstrak
The authors analyzed the math requirements of 199 computer science bachelor's degrees from 158 U.S. universities. They found that while there is agreement that discrete math is critical and calculus is almost always required for the BS in CS, there is little consensus on when students should complete these math courses.
The analysis revealed several key insights:
198 of the 199 degrees require discrete math, but the placement and prerequisites vary widely.
81% of BS degrees require both calculus 1 and 2, compared to 57% of BA degrees.
64 degrees require calculus 1 before discrete math, and 13 require calculus 2 before discrete math, which can significantly impact time-to-degree.
On average, ABET-accredited programs require 5.1 math courses, while non-ABET programs require 4.2.
The authors provide recommendations for CS departments, including not requiring calculus as a prerequisite or corequisite for introductory CS courses, and separating progression in CS from progression in mathematics.
The paper also includes a case study of how Florida International University created a BA in CS with fewer math requirements, leading to increased enrollment, diversity, and retention in their CS program.
Statistik
Calculus 1 is required in 191 of the 199 degrees (96.0%).
Calculus 2 is required in 152 of the 199 degrees (76.4%).
Discrete math is required in 198 of the 199 degrees (99.5%).
Probability/Statistics is required in 140 of the 199 degrees (70.4%).
Linear Algebra is required in 116 of the 199 degrees (58.3%).
Calculus 3 is required in 43 of the 199 degrees (21.6%).
Kutipan
"For at least 40 years, there has been debate and disagreement as to the role of mathematics in the computer science curriculum."
"Only about 20% of high school students take calculus, and thus their discovery of CS is barred by this requirement."
"We invite you to ponder this ultimately puzzling question: Are we letting the math department determine who majors in CS?"