GopherConAU 2024 Talk
Lessons Learned: A Developer's Perspective on Teaching and Learning
The presentation covers various learning techniques used at work, such
as brown bag sessions, pair programming, code reviews, and onboarding
processes, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. It then
delves into formal education, comparing university learning with the
bootcamp model. In the presentation I reflect on my personal
experiences with both approaches, noting the benefits and drawbacks of
each.
The presentation also emphasizes the importance of informal learning
outside of work, particularly through meetups and workshops. I share
my experience organizing a coding challenge at a meetup, discussing
the challenges and successes of this initiative.
Learning new approaches
Transitioning from teaching at a university to a coding bootcamp was a
stark contrast in educational approaches. University emphasized
structure and in-depth theoretical knowledge, while the bootcamp
prioritized a hands-on, "show, don't tell" methodology. Instead of
lectures and exams, the focus was overwhelmingly on practical
application, with students spending most of their time immersed in
coding exercises and real-world projects. Theory was introduced only
when absolutely necessary, ensuring rapid skill acquisition and
immediate practical relevance.
Articles on topics
The talk covered topics that have been a focus of mine for some time
now, and I've explored them in the following
articles, which predate the presentation:
Key takeaways include
-
No one-size-fits-all approach: Different learning techniques work
better in different situations.
-
Practical application is crucial: Hands-on practice is essential for
effective learning, especially in coding.
-
Informal learning is valuable: Meetups and workshops provide
opportunities for growth and community engagement.
-
Embrace experimentation: Trying new learning techniques can lead to
unexpected and valuable outcomes.
The presentation concludes with a call to action, encouraging
developers to explore a variety of learning techniques and embrace
continuous learning.
