Computing Reviews News

Featured Reviewer: Ashish Vaidya

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our November featured reviewer, Ashish Vaidya.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) I find this question akin to choosing a favorite piece of a puzzle. There have been so many ground-breaking changes in the past decade, for instance, practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and maachine learning in daily complex activities: driving, massive reduction in cost and entry barriers to virtually limitless computing power enabled via the cloud, the Internet of Things (IoT), wearable technologies, and the surge in mobile computing power that went from fiction to a part of our daily lives. I find all of these amazing and highly motivating.

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) I find the world of finance and investing extremely fascinating. It is the only field where a novice can outperform a seasoned practitioner. If not contributing to the computer science field, I would be diving deeper into the world of finance and investing.

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) We will certainly witness tremendous advancements in connectivity, AI, robotics, natural interfaces, computing power, automation, security, and their application in all disciplines. My current work on Alexa is related to leveraging the latest in cloud technologies to enhance natural interfaces that enable easier access to AI-powered applications. 

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) Bill Gates. His vision for accessible technology resulted in the Windows operating system, which made Microsoft synonymous with personal computing and one of the most influential tech companies in history. Beyond his business success, he is continuously working to address global challenges such as poverty, healthcare, and education. His initiatives have had a profound impact, especially in developing countries. This makes him a respected figure both in business and humanitarian efforts.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) I love instrumental music. My favorite musical instruments are Indian bamboo flute, piano, and handpan.

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Click here to read one of Ashish’s reviews.

Featured Reviewer: Sunil Kumar Puli

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our October featured reviewer, Sunil Kumar Puli.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) In the past decade, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning has transformed the computing landscape. AI's integration into everyday technologies—from healthcare diagnostics to personalized user experiences—has redefined the capabilities of computing systems. These advances, combined with the proliferation of cloud computing, have reshaped the way we interact with data and leverage computational power globally.

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) I would likely pursue a career in research or teaching. I’ve always been passionate about sharing knowledge, whether through mentoring or academic contributions. Exploring the intersections of science, technology, and education would be a natural alternative path for me.

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) By the end of my career, I believe computer science will have taken us into an era of ubiquitous AI, where every aspect of daily life—transportation, healthcare, education—will be driven by intelligent systems. My current work in cybersecurity and system administration is contributing to this future by ensuring that these systems remain secure, scalable, and resilient to threats, helping to maintain public trust and operational integrity as they evolve.

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) My favorite historical figure is Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, an esteemed Indian scientist and former president. His pioneering work in aerospace engineering, especially in advancing India's space and missile programs, has left an indelible mark on both science and society. What inspires me most is his humility, perseverance, and dedication to education, all of which serve as guiding principles in my career. His belief in innovation and lifelong learning continues to influence my approach to solving complex problems in technology.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) I enjoy a blend of Indian classical music and Western classical music. Ragas, with their intricate patterns and emotional depth, provide inspiration and a mental reset during challenging tasks. At the same time, pieces by composers like Beethoven and Mozart evoke a sense of structured complexity, which parallels the logic-driven nature of computing. Together, these musical forms help me strike a balance between creativity and precision in my work.

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Click here to read one of Sunil’s reviews.

Featured Reviewer: Wael Badawy

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our September featured reviewer, Wael Badawy.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) The most important advancement in computing over the past decade is arguably the development and widespread adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). This era has seen significant breakthroughs in deep learning, leading to transformative applications across various fields such as natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and autonomous systems. Notable achievements include the development of advanced language models like GPT-3 and GPT-4, which have revolutionized the way we interact with technology, enabling more sophisticated and human-like interactions with machines.

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) If I weren’t working in the computer science (CS) field, I would likely be involved in architecture. The creativity, design, and problem-solving aspects of architecture are highly appealing. It’s a field that combines technical precision with artistic expression, much like CS, but applied to the physical spaces we inhabit.

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) By the end of my career, I believe CS will have taken us to an era of highly integrated, intelligent systems that seamlessly enhance human capabilities. This will likely include advanced AI that can autonomously manage complex tasks, sophisticated cybersecurity measures that protect our digital lives, and innovations in fields like bioinformatics and quantum computing that push the boundaries of what’s possible. I am particularly focused on developing robust and ethical AI systems that can be deployed safely across various sectors, contributing to advancements in automation, data analysis, and personalized user experiences.

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) My favorite historical figure is Alan Turing. Turing’s contributions to mathematics and CS are foundational, particularly his work on the concept of computation and the development of the Turing machine. His pioneering efforts during World War II in breaking the Enigma code exemplify the profound impact that innovative thinking and technical prowess can have on the world. Turing’s legacy continues to inspire advancements in computing and AI.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) My favorite type of music is classical music. The complexity, emotional depth, and timeless beauty of classical compositions resonate deeply with me. Listening to the works of composers like Beethoven, Mozart, and Bach provides a sense of inspiration and tranquility, making it an ideal backdrop for both deep thought and relaxation.

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Click here to read one of Wael’s reviews.

Featured Reviewer: Christopher Battiston

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our August featured reviewer, Chris Battiston.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) I think the most important thing that's come out are the conversations around ethical and appropriate use of people's data and algorithms. Books like Weapons of math destruction, Algorithms of oppression, and Queer data have started to fill in the substantial gap caused by people looking to use this data for less than good intentions, and I hope that these conversations start to shift the way data mining and artificial intelligence (AI) are used. 

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) Probably working in a pediatric hospital as a social worker or play therapist. My degree is actually in child development, and that was my life plan back when I was in my 20s. 

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) I hope to see more open-source software allowing countries and not-for-profit organizations to start excelling at collecting and analyzing data that they feel is important. I volunteer with a number of different organizations looking at equitable data collection, data justice, and developing questions that are inclusive, sensitive, and accessible, and I hope that this will eventually lead to more people feeling represented in research (especially medical research). 

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) I wouldn't say "favorite," but one I truly admire is Henrietta Lacks. An amazing person who was completely taken advantage of by the medical profession, her legacy has had a major impact on cancer research, but she never knew her significance. 

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) I quite literally listen to pretty much any kind of music—I'm listening to Viking folk music as I write this—but my go-to is heavy metal. I’ve been listening to it for more than 35 years and have always been impressed with how it pushes boundaries, exploring topics that are usually forbidden or taboo. I have also become more interested in bands from countries/populations that are not normally seen as "metal.”

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Click here to read one of Chris’s reviews.

Featured Reviewer: T.H. Tse

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our July featured reviewer, T.H. Tse.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) Referring to the last 10-year period, software testing and debugging have remained the most important issues. We seldom teach such techniques explicitly in undergraduate computer science courses, but we expect all software developers to know them. My research partners and I have jumped on the bandwagon and developed various methodologies that have proven success and are well-accepted by other researchers and practitioners.

Referring to the last five years or so, generative artificial intelligence is obviously the most important thing in computing. 

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) I have diversified interests. I might be working as a social worker advocating the equality of people with or without a disability. I might also be a graphic designer sustaining the excellent concepts in modernism. 

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) I have already retired from my full professorship. I am currently an honorary professor at the same university. Having said that, I am still working toward promising methodologies in software testing and debugging.

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) My favorite historical figure is Bertrand Russell, who has laid down modern concepts in logic and philosophy of mathematics.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) I like popular classical music such as Romance for Violin and Orchestra by Beethoven, the Jupiter Symphony by Mozart, and The Four Seasons by Vivaldi.

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Click here to read one of T.H.’s reviews.

Featured Reviewer: Lalit Saxena

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our June featured reviewer, Lalit Saxena.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) Artificial intelligence (AI) has shown the true colors of computing that go much beyond human capabilities. ChatGPT and humanoids are just two examples of AI’s impact.

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) I would always be doing what I’m doing now, that is, defending the accused as a criminal defense lawyer.

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) While there is no “end” to a career, interests do change over time and it is good to have a backup plan. I am able to contribute to the field in my role as a Computing Reviews reviewer.

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) Jean-Paul Sartre, because of his inspiring philosophical thoughts.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) Music that is easily available.

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Click here to read one of Lalit’s reviews.

Featured Reviewer: Shefali Naik

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our May featured reviewer, Shefali Naik.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) In India, I have witnessed automation in many things, including online ticket booking, mobile applications for vehicle renting, and online shopping of almost everything. So, mobile computing and web technologies are the most important things as they have changed and improved common citizens' lives drastically.

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) Maybe a mathematician.

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) I think more artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled technologies will be in full swing. I am contributing indirectly by educating my students to become good computer scientists.

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a great leader who integrated princely states into an independent and united India.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A)  Hindi Bollywood songs and Gujarati garbas.

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Click here to read one of Shefali’s reviews.

Featured Reviewer: Svetlana Segarceanu

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our April featured reviewer, Svetlana Segarceanu.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) I do not know; maybe advances in communication, with all it involves, including the Internet, the Internet of Things (IOT), speech processing, and natural language processing (NLP).

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) Something more related to environmental protection or education.

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) I am at the end of my career. My contributions are very unimportant.

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) Leonhard Euler comes to my mind. He was blind by the age of 59, but made most of his discoveries after that age.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) Pop (The Beatles, The Rolling Stones), classical (Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Rachmaninoff, Bellini, and many others), and Latin (Mexican, Argentinian, Peruvian).

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Click here to read one of Svetlana's reviews.

Featured Reviewer: Michael Oudshoorn

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our March featured reviewer, Michael Oudshoorn.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) I would say generative AI and its impact in both the workplace and on campuses. I don’t think we have seen the end of the disruption it is causing yet.

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) I originally went to university to become a physical and inorganic chemist. That idea lasted about six weeks before I switched to computer science and never looked back.

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) Computer science impacts almost every aspect of everyone’s life in some way. There are so many daily objects that are computer controlled, and more joining the list every day. Forty years ago, who would have thought you needed an Internet-connected thermostat or refrigerator, that you would have a GPS navigation system with live traffic updates on your phone, or that Siri/Alexa would answer questions while you drove your vehicle. My contribution is in computer science education, and I recently had the honor of serving on the steering committee working on the CS2023 computer science curriculum guidelines.

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) Captain Cook—he is credited with discovering Australia 😉. This also seems like a more appropriate answer than Ned Kelly.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) Rock and pop.

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Click here to read one of Michael's reviews.

Featured Reviewer: Xiangdong Sean Che

Featured in Five is a monthly section where we pose questions to a Computing Reviews featured reviewer. Here are the responses from our February featured reviewer, Xiangdong Sean Che.

Q) What is the most important thing that's happened in computing in the past 10 years?

A) The exponential growth in computing power and the wealth of available information have propelled the rapid advancement of computational intelligence, fundamentally freeing humans from complex tasks such as driving, writing, and even creative artwork.

 

Q) If you weren't working in the computer science field, what would you be doing instead?

A) I would be pursuing a career in motion pictures, either as a screenwriter or a director.

Q) By the end of your career, where do you think computer science will have taken us? What are you working on that might contribute toward that?

A) Artificial intelligence in an increasingly digitalized and interconnected world promises to liberate human beings from countless tedious tasks, profoundly improving the quality of life for all. Simultaneously, safeguarding the security of the cyberworld will emerge as paramount for maintaining societal stability. Both of these facets constitute my research interests.

Q) Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?

A) Albert Einstein. His extraordinary, imaginative yet meticulous thinking ability enabled him to envision possibilities far beyond our sensory perception.

Q) What is your favorite type of music?

A) New age.

 

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Click here to read one of Sean's reviews.