6 answers
Christopher
Student
Harvey, Illinois
4
Questions
Updated
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Is it okay to get into any computer field with little to no knowledge on the subject?
Computers have always been of interest to me on many different levels, both in hardware and software. Still, I have never been in a position to expand my personal skills and knowledge of computers. To be able to create the things I have always dreamed of, I would like to program or even code in some way. Computer science as a whole is very daunting, and from what I hear difficult to start and maintain. As such I would appreciate the guidance of one in the this field.
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6 answers
Dexter Arver
Senior Manager, Web Applications
234
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Dexter’s Answer
Hi Christopher,
I agree with Natalie above. What you need to become a programmer is the passion to learn programming, and you can do that in a variety of ways. I personally followed books that I bought (though you can borrow them from the library these days), and learned through the tutorials that they provided. These days there are even great youtube videos that you can follow.
If you want to learn a general programming language, I would recommend Python. It's something that can be used for scripts, web development, programs, etc. Also, once you pick up a language like Python, it's easy to transfer to Ruby, PHP, etc.
I would highly recommend joining a local programming club, or a community college class to add structure if you'd like. It'll also help you surround yourself with people who are passionate about programming, which will help you become a better programmer.
I wish you the best!
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Dexter
I agree with Natalie above. What you need to become a programmer is the passion to learn programming, and you can do that in a variety of ways. I personally followed books that I bought (though you can borrow them from the library these days), and learned through the tutorials that they provided. These days there are even great youtube videos that you can follow.
If you want to learn a general programming language, I would recommend Python. It's something that can be used for scripts, web development, programs, etc. Also, once you pick up a language like Python, it's easy to transfer to Ruby, PHP, etc.
I would highly recommend joining a local programming club, or a community college class to add structure if you'd like. It'll also help you surround yourself with people who are passionate about programming, which will help you become a better programmer.
I wish you the best!
--
Dexter
Natalie Dunn
CareerVillage.org TeamProduct Manager at CareerVillage.org
30
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Natalie’s Answer, CareerVillage.org Team
Hi Christopher,
Great question, and it's really commendable that you already have interest and passion as you think about your future. To get into the computer science field (like most fields), you would need to have knowledge on the subject. That being said, that doesn't necessarily mean you would need a degree in computer science or any formal training, but some knowledge is important as you go into any field. For computer science in particular, there are so many free and accessible online resources where you can teach yourself coding, for example, Coursera.org. So, I would say that yes you do probably need some knowledge, but that doesn't mean you need anything specific, or formal training. Lots of incredible coders are self-taught. Good luck and congratulations on thinking about your future!
Great question, and it's really commendable that you already have interest and passion as you think about your future. To get into the computer science field (like most fields), you would need to have knowledge on the subject. That being said, that doesn't necessarily mean you would need a degree in computer science or any formal training, but some knowledge is important as you go into any field. For computer science in particular, there are so many free and accessible online resources where you can teach yourself coding, for example, Coursera.org. So, I would say that yes you do probably need some knowledge, but that doesn't mean you need anything specific, or formal training. Lots of incredible coders are self-taught. Good luck and congratulations on thinking about your future!
Thank you very much on the advice. I greatly appreciate your response greatly and I will be sure to use the resource you have provided.
Christopher
AAMIR PENKAR
Business Ops
6
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
AAMIR’s Answer
Hey Christopher,
It looks like you already have some solid advise from people above. I can tell you from personal experience that I had zero knowledge about computers when I started with technology. I did most of my learning by trial and error and trying to figure out why things were not working like they should be. This let to countless hours of reading about fixes and possible workarounds, and in doing that, systems and technology started to come together in my head.
If you do not have access to formal training, there are many resources online which can be used to start learning a language (like Python as suggested above) or Go (golang) by simply walking through the 'get started' pathways. All of my hardware training was done by myself trying to put together desktop systems and learning about the components needed and how to determine what I could afford vs requirements.
This led me to gain employment in the tech sector where I formalized my knowledge further and advanced in this field.
I say all this to point out that I am not a unique case, as I have known quite a few people very successfully start by tinkering and writing basic code to one day having a career in the technology field. You do not need to learn all about computer science and unless you are extremely unique, you never will learn all of it. However, by diving into the basics will lead you to see what you like and then allow ou to dive deeper into that area.
Good luck!
It looks like you already have some solid advise from people above. I can tell you from personal experience that I had zero knowledge about computers when I started with technology. I did most of my learning by trial and error and trying to figure out why things were not working like they should be. This let to countless hours of reading about fixes and possible workarounds, and in doing that, systems and technology started to come together in my head.
If you do not have access to formal training, there are many resources online which can be used to start learning a language (like Python as suggested above) or Go (golang) by simply walking through the 'get started' pathways. All of my hardware training was done by myself trying to put together desktop systems and learning about the components needed and how to determine what I could afford vs requirements.
This led me to gain employment in the tech sector where I formalized my knowledge further and advanced in this field.
I say all this to point out that I am not a unique case, as I have known quite a few people very successfully start by tinkering and writing basic code to one day having a career in the technology field. You do not need to learn all about computer science and unless you are extremely unique, you never will learn all of it. However, by diving into the basics will lead you to see what you like and then allow ou to dive deeper into that area.
Good luck!
Kamin Punjarojanakul
Software Engineer
3
Answers
Westbury, New York
Updated
Kamin’s Answer
Hey Christopher,
I think it's perfectly fine to get into the computer field with little to no knowledge. My first time programming and learning about the field in general was freshman year of college. I struggled hard in the introduction classes and this subject did not come naturally but eventually things started clicking more. Throughout college, a lot of my learning was on my own through google and youtube videos. There are many online resources that can help guide you through.
I would personally suggest learning the basics of a language, object oriented programming data structures and then start off by doing small personal projects. I learned and still learn the best by doing and making mistakes and there should be plenty of guides online to follow as well.
Good luck!
I think it's perfectly fine to get into the computer field with little to no knowledge. My first time programming and learning about the field in general was freshman year of college. I struggled hard in the introduction classes and this subject did not come naturally but eventually things started clicking more. Throughout college, a lot of my learning was on my own through google and youtube videos. There are many online resources that can help guide you through.
I would personally suggest learning the basics of a language, object oriented programming data structures and then start off by doing small personal projects. I learned and still learn the best by doing and making mistakes and there should be plenty of guides online to follow as well.
Good luck!
Judy Dennis-Rinke, PMP
2
Answers
Waterford Township, Michigan
Updated
Judy’s Answer
Whatever your passion is, you need to start somewhere. We learn as we go along and there will always be someone to reach out to, to assist with your journey. Through a class, social media our someone you have the opportunity to mentor with.
Jimil Burkhart
Software Engineer
97
Answers
Gilbert, Arizona
Updated
Jimil’s Answer
It is certainly possible to start a career in the computer field with little to no knowledge of the subject, but be aware that it may take more time, effort, and resources to get up to speed. The field of computer science is vast and diverse, and there are many different areas you can specialize in. For example, you can start by learning a specific programming language or framework, or focus on a particular field such as web development, data science, or cybersecurity.
One of the most important things is to have the willingness to learn and willingness to put in the time and effort it takes to build a skill set in a certain field. You can start by learning the basics, such as the fundamental concepts of programming, and then progress to more advanced topics as you become more comfortable and confident. There are many resources available online to help you learn, such as tutorials, videos, and forums, and some are free.
Another way to gain knowledge and experience is to look for opportunities to work on projects, either on your own or as part of a team. This can help you gain practical experience, learn from others and allow you to get to know other people in the industry.
It's also important to keep in mind that it's a field that is always changing and growing, so the best way to approach it is with the mindset of a lifelong learner. It will help to set your expectations accordingly and to stay motivated throughout the journey.
So in short, it is possible, but it will require time, effort, and resources to learn the necessary skills and gain experience, but with determination and persistence, you can certainly achieve your goals.
One of the most important things is to have the willingness to learn and willingness to put in the time and effort it takes to build a skill set in a certain field. You can start by learning the basics, such as the fundamental concepts of programming, and then progress to more advanced topics as you become more comfortable and confident. There are many resources available online to help you learn, such as tutorials, videos, and forums, and some are free.
Another way to gain knowledge and experience is to look for opportunities to work on projects, either on your own or as part of a team. This can help you gain practical experience, learn from others and allow you to get to know other people in the industry.
It's also important to keep in mind that it's a field that is always changing and growing, so the best way to approach it is with the mindset of a lifelong learner. It will help to set your expectations accordingly and to stay motivated throughout the journey.
So in short, it is possible, but it will require time, effort, and resources to learn the necessary skills and gain experience, but with determination and persistence, you can certainly achieve your goals.