Since coding is all the rage nowadays, I figured I'd spend Summer "Break" learning how to code. I must confess that I was very naive at first, thinking that my mathematical genius would kick in and I'd pick up the coding process in a snap. Boy was I wrong.
I've been using this free program called LearnStreet. The website offers beginner courses in Javascript, Python and Ruby. As a novice Techie, I chose the most "popular" course: Javascript. Mistake #1.
In my opinion Javascript tends to be based more on problem solving and logic, and less on mathematical equations and operations. After venting to my Twitter peeps on the many obstacles in Javascript coding that I have been unable to overcome, Mr. Gauthier (@mrgfactoftheday) suggested that I try Python. So, I did. And to be completely honest, it makes a lot more sense to me.
I like Python, because it is more attuned to mathematical procedures and operations, as opposed to Javascript which uses more logic and syntax in order to complete a code. Python has reminded me of theorems from my high school Pre-Calculus and Algebra II classes. Also, in coding practice, I've learned a lot about myself on a very technical level.
For example, I don't tend to follow rules to a "T", in coding, you have to. I also don't read directions when I think that something should be intuitive. In coding, you MUST read the directions, otherwise you'll get lost, and begin pulling your hair out. So, take my advice, for now...if you're new to coding, and you want to travel down Easy Street first, then start with Python, and once you gain some confidence in your abilities, give logic-based, syntax-heavy Javascript a go.
This is your TechTeacherT, signing off.
Until next time, when I conquer the beginner Python course.
Over and out.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Monday, July 1, 2013
Prepping for first-ever #girlsintechchat
On July 2nd from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. EST, I'll be hosting a Twitter chat called #girlsintechchat. The goal is to pull together ideas and resources for getting more girls interested in pursuing careers in a Technology field. In this day and age, something just seems wrong about having Technology as a field that boys run. I've personally been a fan of Technology, in particular gaming since I was 5 years old, when my older brother taught me how to play Mario Brothers.
By getting more girls in the mix within their K-12 careers, we're more likely to see diversity in the workplace, and a stronger prospect of gender equality. In today's society where a man's salary outranks that of a woman's the majority of the time, it's important that we teach our girls that equality is a goal worth striving for. By leveling the playing field on the Technology front, I hope that this prospect, this idea of equality in the workplace is something that can be achieved sooner, rather than later.
Since this will be the first #girlsintechchat I'll be seeking input as to the preferred time and date of future #girlsintechchat. Please complete the survey below, so that a regular time/date can be set for future chats.
Thanks so much,
#girlsintechchat Time/date preference Survey
By getting more girls in the mix within their K-12 careers, we're more likely to see diversity in the workplace, and a stronger prospect of gender equality. In today's society where a man's salary outranks that of a woman's the majority of the time, it's important that we teach our girls that equality is a goal worth striving for. By leveling the playing field on the Technology front, I hope that this prospect, this idea of equality in the workplace is something that can be achieved sooner, rather than later.
Since this will be the first #girlsintechchat I'll be seeking input as to the preferred time and date of future #girlsintechchat. Please complete the survey below, so that a regular time/date can be set for future chats.
Thanks so much,
#girlsintechchat Time/date preference Survey
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