How can I learn new programming languages and database stuff on my own?

Question

I am currently a student in my 3rd year into a BS in Computer & Info Tech and I posted the other day about being concerned with the limited programming and database knowledge I will exit school with. To summarize it, when I first started my degree I had no idea what precisely I wanted to do in the field. Now I have narrowed it and know I want to either write code or work with databases, but my school doesn't offer many programming or database classes and I worry I'll be laughed at when I try to look for a job. I'll only come out knowing (very basic in all) C#, Java, HTML, CSS, SQL. There will be a couple courses in database administration.

Eventually I'll try to get an internship but I don't even think I'm prepared for an internship right now; it's been a couple semesters since any programming courses and I can hardly remember any syntax for the little I have learned.

Anyway, many of the comments I've gotten in posts have said something to the effect of "You need to learn to program on your own". So my question is: How?

I am a good self-teacher, and good at finding answers, but I wouldn't have any direction, which is something a person like me can't function without. I need some sort of structure even if it's vague. I need to have a goal - ie; "Write code in this language that accomplishes this." and something that is realistic for a novice programmer to take on. I'm not creative, I can't make up a project out of thin air. But even if I could, ideally I'd have SOME guidance similar to the specifications my professors give in programming assignments, and it would be appropriate for my level. So where do I find projects to tackle? Websites, Books? Programming for Dummies? I know there has to be something out there.

Answer 1

I highly recommend the 'pro' series of books published by 'apress'. these are excellent references that will serve you well as you are earning and later on while on the job. The internet is your friend, it's content was built by programmers and we like to share our knowledge. look at other references that expose you to development methodologies like TDD, various flavors of agile development, etc. Learn about design patterns and coding standards. If you have a job or have ever held a job, consider a need that could be served by a new or improved business application, like a point of sale system or financial/accounting application. understand the business problem. define the requirements, design an application, review what you have so far and make sure everything makes sense, revise as needed, start coding, (I recommend starting with the database/persistance layer model - then the user interface and then tie it all together with the business layer. remember the fundimentals of object oriented design and build a flexible and extensable framework, as the solution requires. Expect to go back and revise your work as you go and learn and make sure that you build in such a way to allow for this.

Answer 2

Before you travel, pick a direction. Do you want to write interactive code for web sites? Be a database admin? Write Windows apps?



Let's say you want to make interactive web pages, which is a great, well-rounded starting point. Pick a platform (Windows/ASP.Net/SQL Server or Linux/PHP/mySQL), Load your box with dev software for the language, a database and a local web server to work your project on. Start your web site with a simple 2-way web app that (1) admins:writes/edits/deletes data, and (2)reads and displays data.



Once you embark on the project, you can Google online tutorials and/or web videos to get you through particular problems you encounter. That's how you learn it at first. Then get ideas to expand your site and eventually push it to the Web.

Answer 3

You can learn C programming using my Video lessons available at

http://www.ritchcenter.com/online

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