I am not just teaching you to code

Recently, I participated in a panel discussion where I was asked about quick ways to get into tech. This question took me by surprise, as I never assumed there was a shortcut for tech. Would people ask "What's a quick way to get into medicine / professional soccer / civil engineering?"

In a world where bootcamps are becoming increasingly popular, it’s crucial to remember that technology is not just about writing code – it's about understanding the impact of what we create. With tech playing a pivotal role in our lives, the responsibility of creating thoughtful, well-designed solutions needs to be acknowledged.

As someone who works as a university professor and studied for eleven years at three universities, I get that I am biased. I want to make it clear that I don't believe people need to get PhDs to get into tech. However, I do believe in the importance of a solid foundation. In my course, CS 5004 Object-Oriented Design, I emphasize not just coding, but the principles of design. It's one thing to write code, but another to create software that is easy to maintain and extend over time. During the course, we encourage a modular approach, enhancing the flexibility and scalability of what we build. We also stress the importance of excellent documentation.

For example, in a recent project, my students developed a virtual pet using the model-view-controller architecture, integrating the strategy pattern for behavioral changes. This project, while fun, required deep understanding and creativity in its design.

I acknowledge that not everyone has the privilege of formal education in computer science. Bootcamps and online courses are valuable resources, and I encourage those for whom they are the best option. But remember, becoming a skilled technologist requires dedication, hours of practice, and engagement with expert feedback.

Here’s a video showcasing the exceptional work of two of my students, a testament to the depth and creativity involved in tech education. It’s not just about learning to code; it’s about learning to think, design, and impact the world responsibly.