Training programmers is different
Training programmers is not the same as training users. That’s why we have our own training philosophy.
Training users is about teaching a person how to do a specific task. You provide step-by-step instructions on what to do. For example: Click on this menu; click on that field; type in this information; click the save button.
Training programmers is about more than just the syntax of a new language. We want you to understand the concepts behind the language. We explain why certain things happen, and how to apply this to real-world problems. But there’s no step-by-step guide for every problem you’ll have to solve.
Our philosophy for training programmers
Our coding principles determine our philosophy for training programmers:
Code like a professional
Good coding practice is the mark of a true professional. So we emphasise the right way to do things. You need to be proud of your work. And you need to remember that someone – maybe you – will have to maintain it.
Rick Osborne, a respected coding guru, once wrote this:
“Always code as if the guy who ends up maintaining your code will be a violent psychopath who knows where you live.”
Communicate clearly
Terminology is important. We define terms and concepts, and train you to use them correctly. This avoids ambiguity and improves understanding.
Follow the standards
We focus on industry standards and well-established conventions. Coding and portability standards improve coding quality and maintainability. We point out the risks of non-standard extensions or deprecated features.
We also warn you about techniques or features to avoid in practice.
Understand the code
We don’t spoon-feed programmers. We don’t follow the “Click-here-click-there” method of teaching. Or the “copy-from-Google” method.
We want you to understand the principles and concepts. That understanding is what you need to solve your real problems.
See the big picture
Our lecturers have experience and knowledge in a wide range of technical subjects. We encourage programmers to have a better understanding of the IT world.
Coding matters
That’s our slogan, and we believe it. That’s why we teach the importance of good coding practice on every course. Many programmers have never been taught these practices.
Good programming focuses on simplicity, clarity and generality. It results in better code and a lower cost of maintenance. So we encourage the following:
- Proper indentation and the use of white space to increase readability.
- The use of a clear and consistent style.
- The liberal use of comments to document the code.
- Meaningful names for variables and procedures.
- The design of code that is simple and re-usable.
- Intelligent choice of features that increase portability.
- Respect for users by designing systems that are easy to use.
- Adherence to company coding standards