Digital entrepreneur and Chair of equality charity, Diversity UK, Lopa Patel MBE joined Professor Sue Black on the ‘100 Moments That Rocked Computer Science’ podcast, discussing incredible stories of the computing innovations that changed our world.
In Episode 10 of Series 2, Lopa and Sue discuss the rise of mobile computing (e.g. laptops) and the tipping point towards the end of the 1990s when mobile working truly became a feasible option. They take a look at this key innovation and huge shift in technology, enabling access to remote working and information for millions of people across the globe. They also looked at AI and how it can work brilliantly with the support of a more diverse pool of developers, moving Lopa to observe that “the greatest moment for women in computer science is yet to come!”, particularly one that considers women’s needs and can tailor future products and services better for technology that works for everyone.
Quentin talks us through his thoughts – what would life be like without the accessibility the laptop has brought, and how would we have managed through a pandemic – what would the risks have been? And Kaal takes a deeper look at the virtual presence this tech has enabled with different methods of connecting, and the opportunities for the creation of a more global workforce.
Series 2 of the ‘100 Moments That Rocked Computer Science’ podcast takes a look at some more of the fundamental developments and advances that have changed and shaped the world we live in today. Sue is joined by guests including Tom Ilube CBE, Dame Steve Shirley, Jacky Wright, Lopa Patel MBE, Priya Lakhani OBE and Jimmy Wales as they give a glimpse of what’s to come.
Listen here: https://kite.link/s2t
About the ‘100 Moments That Rocked Computer Science’ podcast
From Artificial Intelligence to open-source culture, computer science is transforming how we live, work and play and levelling the playing field when it comes to equality of opportunity. But how did all this come about? Join Professor Sue Black and her tech pioneer guests as they take us on a rollicking tour of the 100 moments that rocked both computer science – and the world around us.
From the creation of the first search engine to the technology that sparked the work from home revolution, hear the true stories behind the inventions, advances and collaborations that made it all possible. Featuring industry legends including Dame Stephanie Shirley, Alan Emtage, Jacky Wright, Dermot Turing, Anne-Marie Imafidon and Jimmy Wales, plus insights from Professor Gordon Love and Durham students Kaal Sahele and Quentin O’Brien.
“If anyone can convince the world about Computer Science it’s Sue.” Martha Lane-Fox
“I absolutely love it! So many reasons to listen in and I can’t wait to hear more. Proper edutainment – both inspired and inspiring.” Jacqueline de Rojas
Moment #7: Tom Ilube CBE on the birth of quantum computing
Kicking off this series, Sue is joined by none-other than Tom Ilube CBE. British entrepreneur, philanthropist, and first Black chair of a major sport in England as chair of the Rugby Football Union. In this episode, Sue and Tom take a look at the fascinating world of quantum computing and the difference between this and our classical machines – from thousands of years to seconds!
Moment #8: Dame Stephanie Shirley on ERNIE: the first lottery computer
We’re back for moment 8! This week Sue is joined by philanthropist, champion of women and one of the most legendary women in tech, ever – Dame Stephanie (Steve) Shirley. Listen in as Sue finds out more about Steve’s fascinating work on ERNIE and her incredible story, overcoming stereotypes and many barriers to create a women-centred business on her dining room table that became an organisation worth $3bn.
Moment #9: Jacky Wright on the mobile data explosion
This week, Sue is joined by Microsoft CDO and Corporate Vice President and the UK’s most influential Black person for 2021, Jacky Wright. Together they delve into this fourth industrial revolution and take a look at the part mobile data and technology has to play in supporting diversity and inclusion.
Moment #10: Lopa Patel MBE on the advent of the laptop
Who better to join us for this moment than digital entrepreneur and Chair of equality and inclusion charity, Diversity UK, Lopa Patel MBE. Join Lopa and Sue as they take a look at this key innovation and huge shift in technology, enabling access to remote working and information for millions of people across the globe. These two top tech experts also look at AI and how it can work brilliantly with the support of a more diverse pool of developers.
Moment #11 Priya Lakhani OBE on the rise of platform disruption
This week, the team is joined by Priya Lakhani OBE, and you won’t fail to be won over by Priya’s energy and passion as she joins Sue and the team! From early disruptors such as Amazon, to modern day giants like Uber, Priya shares her thoughts and insights into the nimbleness of new entrants into their markets and the ongoing impact they are having on the way we all live our lives. Plus, the huge impact AI has had on education with her latest venture.
Moment #12: Jimmy Wales on The First Wiki
It’s our last episode, and what a way to end another incredible series! This week we are joined by wiki royalty, Jimmy Wales – founder of the Wikipedia project. Join Sue and Jimmy in this wonderful series finale as they discuss how the open-source revolution inspired the creation of the world’s best known online knowledge platform. Jimmy also shares his views on how to ensure diversity, a healthy online community and AI.
Listen to all the episodes here: https://kite.link/s2t
For those interested in studying Computer Science at Durham University, visit our website to find out more: https://www.durham.ac.uk/departments/academic/computer-science/
100 Moments that Rocked Computer Science is a Why did the Chicken? production for Durham University.