Is computer science still relevant

Has our success become our failure? As computer scientists are successful at developing easy-to-use interfaces, end-user programming environments, and embedded appliances, the standing of Computer Science as a discipline is now questioned. While programming in Assembly and C is considered highly specialized and almost an art, new hypertext markup and scripting languages and highly graphical languages such as Visual Basic have reduced the complexity of programming to the point where it seems as if formal training in Computer Science is no longer needed. Tools such as word-processors, spreadsheet and presentation software have become intuitive enough that many people can learn how to use them without specialized instruction. The Internet has transformed itself from a computing application to a powerful communication medium and information source easily accessible with minimal knowledge of computers. Furthermore, it has facilitated outsourcing, reducing even more the appeal of Computer Science as a college major leading to attractive, high-paying technical jobs. Faced with the prospect of completing a difficult, technically challenging degree only to face the uncertainty of a shrinking job market and relatively low salaries, more students turn away from Computer Science and choose other majors - business, economics, medicine, etc. Even those, who are technically inclined, opt for such fields as Biology and Biochemistry.We believe it is time to ask some important questions: Is Computer Science truly becoming irrelevant, or are there still challenges that will attract students to our discipline? What is the future of Computer Science education in this country? What is the overall outlook for Computer Science as a discipline? These are the topics that our panel wishes to explore.