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Personally, I've seen very little benefits from this new method of learning. Except that you learned programming where you otherwise wouldn't have done? Like

by dwc 16y ago

Personally, I've seen very little benefits from this new method of learning. Except that you learned programming where you otherwise wouldn't have done? Like you, I learned to program on my own. I learned well before the internet, and let me tell you that it's easier and better with it than without. As for missing parts of my education, they are there and they are real. I've attempted to broaden my knowledge by reading and experimenting, and I would suggest that you do the same. This is the difference between learning some HTML, CSS, Javascript so you can put up a web page and the ongoing education that's required to stay current as a programmer. Ongoing reading and playing is required whether you've got a degree or not. For a broad introduction to your craft go buy Code Complete. For a survey of popular programming language paradigms get Seven Languages in Seven Weeks. There's a lot more to read but seriously reading those two will be a nice start and will have a practical impact for you.

solipsist 16y ago
Thanks for the book recommendations - I will definitely look into getting them. > Personally, I've seen very little benefits from this new method of learning. What I meant by this statement is that I saw very little benefits from this method in comparison to the traditional method. While it is not entirely impossible to go back and relearn the basics the right way assuming you've already taught them to yourself, it is most definitely a waste of time and something that should be avoided. As I said before, I think the first introduction to programming is the most important part of the learning experience. If the formal introduction is done well, you should be able to go off into the real world with what you learned and discover new languages by yourself. However, the lack of this introduction makes kids go off and teach it to themselves via the Internet. The solution? Schools should offer the basics of programming at an early age (10-11 years old). From there, those who want to pursue programming in greater depth can seek more instruction or do the learning by themselves. > I learned well before the internet, and let me tell you that it's easier and better with it than without. While I'm sure it's easier with the Internet, it is not necessarily any better. The easier it is, the less time you'll spend learning it.

by dwc 16y ago

solipsist 16y ago

Thanks for the book recommendations - I will definitely look into getting them. > Personally, I've seen very little benefits from this new method of learning. What I meant by this statement is that I saw very little benefits from this method in comparison to the traditional method. While it is not entirely impossible to go back and relearn the basics the right way assuming you've already taught them to yourself, it is most definitely a waste of time and something that should be avoided. As I said before, I think the first introduction to programming is the most important part of the learning experience. If the formal introduction is done well, you should be able to go off into the real world with what you learned and discover new languages by yourself. However, the lack of this introduction makes kids go off and teach it to themselves via the Internet. The solution? Schools should offer the basics of programming at an early age (10-11 years old). From there, those who want to pursue programming in greater depth can seek more instruction or do the learning by themselves. > I learned well before the internet, and let me tell you that it's easier and better with it than without. While I'm sure it's easier with the Internet, it is not necessarily any better. The easier it is, the less time you'll spend learning it.