Computer Science as a Discipline

Question 1

What is the primary focus of computer science?

Answer 1

Solving complex problems using computer technologies, not just programming.

Question 2

What skills are crucial for a computer scientist?

Answer 2

Mathematics, logic, and analytical skills to develop algorithms and solve problems.

Question 3

How do computer scientists differ from computer engineers?

Answer 3

Computer scientists use computers as tools to solve problems, while engineers design and build the computers.

Question 4

Why must computer scientists study digital electronics?

Answer 4

Understanding computer hardware helps in optimizing software and problem-solving.

Question 5

What subjects are covered in a traditional computer science program?

Answer 5

Advanced math, operating systems, algorithms, networks, databases, logic, AI, and software engineering.

Question 6

What does a software engineer do?

Answer 6

Develops large-scale software, follows the SDLC, writes efficient code, and works in a team.

Question 7

What does a web developer do?

Answer 7

Creates websites using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and databases like MySQL.

Question 8

What does a systems analyst do?

Answer 8

Examines existing systems, recommends improvements, and focuses on user experience.

Question 9

What does a UI designer/developer do?

Answer 9

Designs and codes user interfaces that connect users with the software back end.

Question 10

What does a database administrator do?

Answer 10

Manages databases, optimizes queries, and ensures data integrity using SQL.

Question 11

What does a data scientist do?

Answer 11

Uses mathematics, statistics, and programming to analyze large datasets and extract insights.

Question 12

What does a software manager do?

Answer 12

Leads development teams and oversees the software design and development process.

Question 13

What does an information security analyst do?

Answer 13

Identifies security risks, recommends solutions, and enforces cybersecurity policies.

Question 14

What does an information systems (IS) manager do?

Answer 14

Oversees hardware and software needs in an organization and manages IT resources.

Question 15

What does a computer hardware engineer do?

Answer 15

Designs and builds hardware components like circuit boards and network devices.

Question 16

What does a video game developer do?

Answer 16

Specializes in game development using tools like Unity and Unreal Engine.

Question 17

What are some emerging or additional computer science careers?

Answer 17

QA analyst, cloud computing engineer, network administrator, and more in the evolving tech landscape.

Question 18

What is ethics?

Answer 18

The study of moral concepts like behavior, responsibility, good, and evil.

Question 19

What are the three layers of ethical responsibility in computer science?

Answer 19

Corporate/government, developer, and user.

Question 20

What is an example of unethical corporate behavior in software?

Answer 20

Stealing intellectual property from competitors.

Question 21

Why is user privacy an ethical concern?

Answer 21

Companies selling or misusing private user data breach ethical standards.

Question 22

How can corporations maintain proper ethics?

Answer 22

By being transparent about product expectations, avoiding deception, and hiring ethics officers.

Question 23

Why is copying code without permission unethical?

Answer 23

It is a form of intellectual property theft and often illegal.

Question 24

What is the ethical responsibility of a developer regarding confidentiality?

Answer 24

Developers should not disclose company secrets or sensitive information.

Question 25

What should developers do if they witness unethical behavior in the workplace?

Answer 25

Report it, as covering up unethical behavior is also unethical.

Question 26

Why is software piracy unethical?

Answer 26

It is stealing, even though software is not a physical product.

Question 27

What is the EULA, and why is it important?

Answer 27

The End-User License Agreement; it outlines legal usage terms for software.

Question 28

How can users avoid piracy ethically?

Answer 28

By using free versions, subscriptions, or properly licensed software.

Question 29

What is the ACM?

Answer 29

The Association for Computing Machinery, the world’s largest computing society.

Question 30

Why does the ACM have a Code of Ethics?

Answer 30

To inspire computing professionals to work for the greater good of society.

Question 31

Who does the ACM Code of Ethics apply to?

Answer 31

All computing professionals worldwide, regardless of ACM membership.

Question 32

What is the principle of contributing to society?

Answer 32

Computer professionals should strive to create outcomes that benefit others.

Question 33

What does "Avoid harm" mean in the ACM Code?

Answer 33

Consider and prevent possible harm to clients, users, and consumers.

Question 34

What ethical principle relates to honesty?

Answer 34

Keep promises, set reasonable expectations, and do not deceive.

Question 35

What does "Respect creativity" mean in computing ethics?

Answer 35

Do not copy or pirate software without proper credit or payment.

Question 36

How should professionals handle confidentiality and privacy?

Answer 36

Protect sensitive company and user information; do not sell private data.

Question 37

What does the ACM Code say about quality work?

Answer 37

Maintain high standards in both process and final product.

Question 38

What is the principle of professional conduct?

Answer 38

Act ethically and strive to improve skills and education.

Question 39

Why is professional knowledge important?

Answer 39

Professionals should stay updated on company policies and follow them.

Question 40

What is the ACM's stance on review and criticism?

Answer 40

Accept feedback and provide honest reviews when needed.

Question 41

What does the ACM Code say about working within expertise?

Answer 41

Do not fake skills; request help or training when needed.

Question 42

How does the ACM encourage public awareness?

Answer 42

Professionals should help the public understand current technologies.

Question 43

Why is security important in computing ethics?

Answer 43

Systems should be secure and thoroughly tested before release.

Question 44

What is the principle of public good?

Answer 44

Ensure computing work benefits the public.

Question 45

What is social responsibility in computing?

Answer 45

Clearly state and encourage ethical responsibilities in the profession.

Question 46

How should ethical personnel management be handled?

Answer 46

Provide resources and manage employees to improve workplace quality of life.

Question 47

What are central policies in the ACM Code?

Answer 47

Encourage and support policies that align with ethical principles.

Question 48

How should computing professionals approach societal systems?

Answer 48

Use high levels of scrutiny when designing systems that impact society.

Question 49

What are ACM members expected to do regarding ethics?

Answer 49

Follow the Code and encourage others to do the same.

Question 50

What should an ACM member do if they witness an ethics violation?

Answer 50

Consider reporting the violation to ACM, which may take remedial action.