Aug 29, 2001 22:36
22 yrs ago
16 viewers *
English term

computer / computing skills

Non-PRO English Tech/Engineering
Which of the two sounds better? Computer skills or computing skills? Do they mean the same? Is either of them right or wrong?
Thanks in advance

Responses

+1
12 mins
Selected

computer skills

Computing is what computers do - they perform calculations. So unless you mean to say that someone is highly skilled in solving mathematical problems, don't use the expression "computing sills."
"Computer skills" (skills related to operating computers and using different computer programs) is the correct answer.

You could also say "computer experience," if this is on a resume.
Peer comment(s):

agree Martina Ley
1 hr
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3 KudoZ points awarded for this answer. Comment: "This seems to be the most accepted term. Thanks to everyone!"
12 mins

depend on the purpose

I guess both computer skills and computing skills are correct, depend on your purpose. Computer skills means the skills about computer aplication, and computing skills means the skills to compute, and have no relation with computer. Computer itself was mean machine to compute.
I hope this could help.
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14 mins

Different emphasis

Computing skill = Skill in processing information, i.e. in using (computer) applications. Software emphasis.

Computer skill = Skill in computer technology, i.e. in using, maintaining, installing and perhaps even in building computers. Hardware emphasis.
Reference:

My geriatric brain.

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1 day 23 hrs

"Computer skills" is more generic and more commonly used.

The skills associated with the use of computers are most commonly called "computer skills." Our new secretary is computer-savvy. She knows how back up files, trouble-shoot application errors, create fancy e-mail, customize installation of software, upgrade hardware, etc. She has a lot of "computer skills."

On the other hand, "Computing" tends to be used by techies, and typically refers to what computers actually do. One speaks of the "evolving computing needs of this organization," or the "combined computing power of a network," or the "computing challenge that our expansin will create," or "new computing technologies."

The term is less used in the context of skills, although I can imagine someone speaking of skills in dealing with "computing problems or issues." It would not be wrong to say, "computing skills;" it would introduce an emphasis that in most situations would be somewhat odd, but that may be appropriate in some contexts, as when we attribute such skills to a developer, for instance.

Fuad
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