2810	 Professionalism in the Computing Field	 The term professional means different things to different people nevertheless there are certain general technical and social standards normally associated with a professional. Further the term is more generally applied to the practitioner rather than to the researcher. But within the rather broad definition specified the computing practitioner is as yet not regarded as a professional. Each of the four types of institutions-academic industry government and the professional society- that educate employ regulate and mold the practitioner contributes to the nonprofessional status of the computing practitioner. The roles of these institutions are examined various shortcomings are noted and recommended changes are suggested. In the last analysis professional status is not bestowed it is earned. However universities and industry specifically can make certain improvements to help the computing practitioner achieve professional status. professional aspects educational programs industry attitudes professional societies licensing and certification
