What I Learned From My 8th Light Apprenticeship About How To Learn Programming

Lessons:

1. Learning may require a new approach than you’re used to.
2. Pair pair pair.
3. Embrace both diffuse and active learning.
4. Remember that it’s not magic. Nothing
5. Learn to read technical books.
6. Active learning through coding is powerful.
7. Don’t panic or burn out if you’re blocked.
8. Timebox it!
9. Think of it as exploring.

Active learning

Active learning is when you’re concentrated — focusing all your attention on the task at hand. But this alone is not enough. Active, concentrated thinking on a topic is great — but you can’t sustainably do it forever.

Diffuse learning

So after a hard study session, take a break, take a walk, even take a quick nap, and know that your brain is still making valuable connections as you rest. The catch? You need to actually relax your mind, so doom scrolling on your phone doesn’t count.

Pairing

When you pair with someone less experienced than you, you can reinforce your own knowledge by explaining it to others