A Virginia Tech software engineering class in 2009 was discussing world problems and how computer science might offer solutions when a student piped up with a personal gripe, the Washington Post reports. “You know what I hate?” the student said, according to assistant professor Eli Tilevich, who was teaching the class. “I never know when the bus is coming.” As Virginia Tech and other universities train a new generation of computer scientists, professors are asking students to create programs that address real-life problems, often through handy, smartphone-ready apps. It’s a break from traditional coursework such as sorting lists of numbers or re-creating programs that already exist…
Laura Ascione is the Editorial Director at eSchool Media. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland's prestigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism.
Latest posts by Laura Ascione (see all)
- In districts, reaching readiness, retention, and success - March 5, 2026
- AI use is on the rise, but is guidance keeping pace? - January 2, 2026
- 49 predictions about edtech, innovation, and–yes–AI in 2026 - January 1, 2026