Bug Issues (Lost in Translation ep.2)
lost in translation is a funny take on the challenges of clear communication in science. FOLLOW ALONG AS JARGON AND JUMBLE NAVIGATE THE CONFUSING WORLD OF LINGUISTIC MISCOMMUNICATIONS AND TRY NOT TO GET TOO LOST IN TRANSLATION.
This comic is a collaboration between valeria (drawings & concept) and kenia (text & concept)
Bug in Computer Science and Women in STEM
In the world of computer science, the word “bug” is commonly used to refer to a programming error or flaw in a software system that causes it to produce unexpected or incorrect results. These bugs can be difficult to identify and fix, and can have serious consequences if left unresolved.
While the term “bug” has been used in this context since the early days of computing, it was popularized by a now-famous incident in 1947 involving computer pioneer Grace Hopper. According to legend, Hopper discovered a moth that had become trapped in one of the switches of a computer she was working on, causing it to malfunction. She removed the moth and taped it to a logbook entry, writing “first actual case of bug being found” next to it. This incident gave rise to the now-common use of the term “bug” in computer science.
In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the underrepresentation of women in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. While progress has been made in increasing the number of women pursuing careers in these fields, women still face numerous challenges and barriers to success, including gender bias, discrimination, and a lack of supportive policies and practices.
Despite these challenges, there are many inspiring women who have made significant contributions to the field of computer science. Grace Hopper, for example, is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of computing, having played a key role in the development of early programming languages and systems. Other notable women in computer science include Ada Lovelace, who is widely considered to be the world’s first computer programmer, and Margaret Hamilton, who led the team that developed the software for the Apollo space missions.
While bugs can be frustrating, they’re nothing compared to the challenges that women in STEM fields have faced over the years. So let’s celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, even if it is a little late, by recognizing and honouring the achievements of women that have broken down barriers and paved the way for future generations. We often forget that many of us wouldn’t be here, talking about science and research, if they hadn’t pursued their passions beyond what society thought acceptable.