Are You a Self-Taught Programmer or a Product of Formal Education?

When it comes to becoming a software developer, the route chosen can vary greatly. Some embark on a path filled with self-study, while others opt for formal education. In either case, the essence of the journey lies in continuous learning and acquiring new skills.

Self-Taught vs. Formal Education: Personal Experiences

Consider my background, for instance. I never underwent any formal programming courses beyond a superficial high school computing course. The language I was taught was named Turing, something hardly relevant today. Despite its obscurity, this experience didn't overshadow the joy of learning on my own. Instead, I focused on picking up skills as I went, rather than being constrained by an exact curriculum.

The Two Types of Programmers

There are, in my view, only two categories of programmers: those who perpetually learn new things and survive, and the unemployed. This stark reality underscores the importance of ongoing education in the field. A degree alone does not guarantee employment or success; it is the continuous pursuit of knowledge that keeps one relevant and competitive in the software industry.

The Role of Formal Training

While formal training can offer significant advantages, especially for those looking to enter the field of software development, the real value lies in practical experience and real-world projects. Learning from professional failures and understanding the challenges of software development is as crucial as any theoretical knowledge. Whether you choose formal education or opt for self-study, the key is to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios and gain hands-on experience.

Early Programming Experiences

Back in high school, my understanding of programming was quite limited. I spent two semesters learning Tandy BASIC on TRS-80 Model III computers. This was BASIC during its line-numbered and GOTO-dominated era. The rest of my knowledge came from independent study, immersing myself in languages like FORTRAN and PL/1 while learning punch card techniques.

The Journey of Learning to Program

It wasn’t until I started working that I truly began to learn programming. Over a period of five years, practice and experience taught me more than I could have imagined in a classroom. I believe that learning programming is not just about formal education but about the practical aspects of developing software. While I technically completed a degree in Computer Science later, it was more a culmination of my previous experiences rather than the sole source of my knowledge.

Conclusion: The Value of Experience

Ultimately, the path to becoming a successful programmer depends on your ability to learn and adapt. Whether you choose to learn through formal courses or self-study, the most important thing is to continuously seek knowledge and apply it practically. In the dynamic world of software development, staying ahead of the curve means constantly refreshing and expanding your skill set.

References:

Feel free to explore additional resources and articles to further your understanding:

[Link to an article on self-taught programming experiences] [Link to a resource on formal education in programming] [Link to a case study on the importance of practical experience in software development]