Abstraction the Big Idea and it s Significance in Science and Technology Education

Abstract

This paper discusses the role of abstraction in science and technology education. It starts with a humble introduction of abstraction in general, while discussing the first few encounters of a learner with this idea. Significance of abstraction and the required motivation level of learner are also discussed. An expected change in the attitude of a learner at transition to higher studies is proposed. Thereafter the contribution of abstraction in the evolution of Computer Science and Engineering is discussed in some detail. Moreover a deduction of the Computer Science Curriculum is also shown along the same line as its evolution. Finally the paper concludes with emphasizing the importance of understanding links between different layers of abstractions.