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Dr. Fred Martin invents, co-designs, and studies new technologies that enable teaching and learning in computer science, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Martin creates partnerships for bringing new computing technologies to learners both in and out of school. He collaborates with researchers in other fields, particularly in education and psychology.
Martin’s work has been supported with more than $5M of funding raised as principal investigator, including seven major awards from the National Science Foundation.
Martin received his undergraduate, master’s, and PhD degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He built his academic career at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he was a faculty member from 2002 to 2023. Dr. Martin is presently Professor and Chair of Computer Science at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Connect with him to learn more.
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Here are Three Things We Cover:
- Foundations in Computer Science Education: Dr. Fred Martin discusses the importance of building a strong foundation in computer science education during the freshman and sophomore years of an undergraduate program. He emphasizes the significance of learning core concepts such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and the basics of programming languages like Java and C. This foundation is crucial for students to understand how computers work and to prepare them for solving complex problems and advanced coursework.
- Experiential Learning and Internships: Dr. Fred Martin highlights the value of experiential learning through internships and other real-world experiences. He explains that after the first two years of a computer science program, students are often equipped with enough skills to contribute meaningfully to companies. Internships not only provide practical experience but also help students build professional networks and enhance their resumes. He also mentions the importance of research opportunities with faculty for those interested in pursuing graduate studies.
- Master’s Program in Artificial Intelligence (AI): The podcast also covers the details and benefits of pursuing a master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence, especially for career changers or those who might not have a computer science background. Dr. Fred Martin explains that AI is used across various fields, and gaining expertise in this area can open up numerous career opportunities. The program at UTSA includes foundational courses in data science and advanced courses in large language models, making it suited for individuals looking to deepen their knowledge and impact their respective fields through AI.
Here are Three Actionable Takeaways From This Episode
- Gain Experience Beyond the Classroom: Seek internships and research opportunities early. Aim for experiences that offer real-world application of your skills, ideally starting after your second year.
- Build a Strong Foundation in Computer Science: Focus on mastering the fundamentals in your initial years. Courses in languages like Java and C, and topics like data structures are crucial for long-term success.
- Plan for Continuous Learning: Prepare for continuous education post-graduation, especially in evolving fields like AI. Enroll in online courses, join professional organizations, and consider part-time graduate degrees if offered by your employer.