Spring quarter of 2022, Walla Walla University will offer a new class titled Computing for Insight that will teach the basics of computing to students who are not in computer science related majors. 

In today's technology and data centered world, computing is everywhere, but learning these skills can be daunting for students who do not have any experience in the field. To remedy this issue, Jonathan Duncan, computer science and mathematics professor, said this class is specifically designed for students from all disciplines who have never written a computer program before. 

Duncan explained that knowing how to gain real world insights from data, solve complex problems, or complete tedious tasks with computer programs can save a lot of time. Kirk Onthank, a biology professor said, “Our ability to collect data in this moment in history far outstrips our ability to analyze that data, so there is a huge need for people who understand how to use the tools to analyze that data and get meaning out of that data.” 

In Computing for Insight, students will learn Python, a more modern and accessible computer programming language than similar programs, and the class will culminate in a project where students pick an important problem in their discipline and come up with a solution using the techniques covered in the class. 

Learning the basics of computing is helpful for all majors. Karen Clausen-Brown, an English professor, explained that computing is important in the literary field because it can help to identify trends in genres, themes, and word patterns. Ben Khoo, a business professor, explained that computing is useful when predicting products, sales, and understanding other business trends. 

Duncan also highlighted how this class not only gives students practical skills, but is also a great resume booster and can make students stand out in interviews and on resumes. 
“The people who are best fit for solving problems in their field are the ones who really understand that discipline,” Duncan said. Computer for Insight, or CPTR 230, will be available Spring quarter of 2022, and to learn more you can view the promotional video for the class.

Posted on March 1, 2022