A Student for Life 🤓
Online tools that have helped me self-improve as a developer
Introduction
I always thought education would end the moment I put on my graduation cap, and that life from then on would be smooth sailing. 💯 Little did I know that I had barely scratched the surface...
The tech field is one of the many fields that are extremely dynamic. It is ever changing and there is always something new to learn and add on to your skill set. It is your responsibility as a software engineer or developer to be updated on the emerging trends, and the news in your field of specialization at all times. As a result, the internet becomes your closest friend. (No offence to all B.F.F.s and 'Ride or Die's who may be affected by such a discovery) Hence, I put a collection of my 2 cents on the topic and share the online tools that have been of great help, and shone a light on the path to follow thus far:
1. YouTube
We often make fun of 'The University of YouTube' and say that a couple of degrees are usually attributed to some content creators on the platform. Well, it actually isn't a joke. Youtube is a key contributor to the growth of skills to a large extent. The content is freely available, and the catalog to select from is vast. Additionally, the searching of a video to suit a challenge you are facing or a skill you would like to learn is very user friendly: Simply type in whatever you want in the search bar, in whatever format. The suggestions brought forward will definitely reflect what you desire. Some of the key channels that have been of great help to me are such as:
2. Online Learning Platforms and Programs
The internet has made many dreams come true, such attending courses and programs taught by experts who are in countries on the other side of the world, right from the comfort of your home office (Even if your home office is your bed 😂). The tech space is full of programs that can take you through the lessons and pathways to become a skilled expert in a specialization that you would had never had access to where you are. All you need is internet access, a machine to work on, note taking application (or book), and the determination and discipline of 1,000 learners 😅 (Yes, I said 1,000, not 10. Trust me, discipline is very key here). Some recommendations that have really served me well:
TIP: You can always leverage vouchers and coupons shared to get courses for free or at subsidized rates.
3. Coding Platforms
How can you be sure you have understood some concepts without a bit of application? That's where coding challenges' platforms and testing sites come into the picture. At first, I was nervous and thought I would barely be able to achieve anything with the little knowledge I had. I was, however, pleased to find out that the sites have challenges of various levels, right from the beginner. They are mostly questions that help you apply the content you have learnt, by giving you scenarios to apply those methods to solve them. With each question you successfully solve, your confidence builds, and you always learn something new. My favourites:
4. Blogs and Articles
If videos and questions aren't really the best way for you to learn, then worry not. Others have learnt and written articles and blogs on the very topic that you would like to learn as well. Furthermore, the main reason they write is so that they can help others, like yourself, who prefer to read content curated by others on what they have learnt. Technical writers always aim to provide as much detail and direction in their articles as possible, to make your work as simple as possible. (By now you know the drill 😄):
TIP: Documentation of various programming languages and software tools can also teach you quite a lot!
5. University Courses
Cliche, but true. If you are pursuing an IT-related course that has courses and units that are on a topic in the area you would wish to pay attention, then that is the real deal! Pay attention in class, take notes, and do the work. Enough said. 😎
Do NOT forget:
Consistency is the name of the game Keep a timetable, and follow it. Self-improvement solely depends on your self-discipline: Do NOT let yourself down. Practice daily.
Ask When in doubt or blank, ask others who may be more skilled. Share knowledge too when you are able, to help those who are stuck.
Get plugged in Forums and communities are vital to grow in the tech field. Join GDGs, online forums like StackOverflow and AskUbuntu, and attend tech events to learn more.
Conclusion
Well, the content really does seem like a lot at first, and that can be overwhelming. However, just keep calm, and learn on 😎. Be consistent and share as much as you gain, because as I once retweeted:
