Dec-CS: the computer science declining phenomenon

Abstract

Contrary to the continuing growth of the informatics industry in Europe the number of computer science experts (students, graduates, teachers, etc.) is declining. This decline is producing some negative consequences in the technology field that affect other sectors like the economic and educational ones. In order to analyze this situation and in view of providing solutions to stop the decline, it is primordial to understand the reasons that attract students to choose computer science as a domain of study and retain them in the field. This paper presents the results of a survey that sheds light on student motivations to follow or reject computer science studies. The main goal of the survey was to identify the reasons that cause this rejection and use them as opportunities to enhance the career in the future. This study is a preliminary phase of a larger research goal which aims to identify strategies to foster interest in computer science amongst students and professionals in Europe.