Matthew's stepson wants to become a coder and wants to know how to find out what specs he'll need to create software. Leo says that there's a tool he can use called C# Profiling, which will analyze the app and see what resources it uses, and then highlight how much each process will use.
Micheal wants to know if these coding boot camps can get you a job after learning for only 12 weeks? Leo says that you can get a good start with them, but it's not something you don't want to pay too much money on. Code Academy will teach you the same basic skills. But even then, you have to take what you learn to the next level to make a living at it. Nothing can substitute practice and experience.
Al just moved here from Chicago and he needs to get some training in coding to get an IT job. Leo says that it depends on how much coding they want him to know. Obviously, he won't compete with people who have a computer science degree or who are already established with a solid resume. But he can get started with UDacity. They offer "nano degrees" with an online school of programming, and they are also Google-approved.
RJ is a librarian and wants some recommendations on coding books for kids to learn how to code. Leo says that the issue with books on coding is that they are dated pretty quickly. That's why he always recommends going to Code Academy. Kids are also interested in learning the languages of the day. But there are some classics including learning Python. The Kernahan and Ritchie C Programming Language Book is a short book, but a classic. How to Design Programs (HTDP) is the most important programming book you can get, and it's free online as well as in publication, along with SICP.
John is a coder and he wants to know if a Unity server will work to create the game he's writing. If he has DirectX 10, he should be OK. He can turn down the settings for lower quality to get the frame rate up, just to see how it works.
The internet has always been an incredible resource for information, but if you're motivated enough, you can take that a step further and get a free or inexpensive college education. MOOCs, or "Massive Open Online Courses," are real classes that have been made available online from schools and universities. Many of these courses are free, but if you decide to pay, you can actually get a certificate of completion or a MicroMasters from it. Here are some of the places you can find these MOOCs:
Bill is looking to change careers at 50 and start coding. What should he do to get started? Leo says the language he chooses is important, but he also wants to know where the needs are. Leo says Python, C++, and even Java still have demand. He'll want to start where his niche will be. What is the most needed? Then learn the languages that fit that niche. The good news is, there's a lot of online resources to get started.
Ryan would like to learn to program so he can get a job coding. Leo says the first place to start is with the Stanford iOS course on iTunes. It will give him a step by step on how to code for an app. Leo also recommends a program called How to Design Programs (HTDP).
Jeffrey asks Leo if "coding" is the same as what he used to call "programming" back in high school. Leo says it is, and theorizes about the new mindset in modern computer programming.
Richard is disabled and wants to get into coding to get off the ground. Leo says to start at Code.org or Udacity.com
