#177 - The science behind learning to code: Why you don’t need 10,000 hours to succeed
Oct 7, 2024
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Dr. Junaid Akhtar, a content architect at Educative and former computer science professor, discusses the science of learning to code. He debunks the myth that 10,000 hours of practice is needed, proposing that focused 20-hour sessions can lead to proficiency. Junaid emphasizes the power of project-based learning, akin to music education, for motivation and retention. He also highlights the advantages of text-based resources over video courses, advocating for interactive, practical coding experiences that enhance real-world skills.
Project-based learning significantly enhances coding education by providing context and motivation through real-world applications.
A common misconception about mastering programming is debunked, suggesting that 20 focused hours can yield functional understanding instead of 10,000.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Learning to Code
Learning to code can often be a daunting endeavor for many individuals transitioning to software development from different careers. A key issue highlighted is that adults tend to struggle with learning strategies, often falling into traps like 'tutorial hell' and feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of coding concepts. Acknowledging that learning as an adult differs significantly from childhood education, there is an emphasis on the need for tailored approaches that accommodate adult learning styles. Effective learning requires not merely passive consumption of tutorials but engaging methods that foster deeper understanding and application of concepts.
The Importance of Project-Based Learning
Project-based learning is presented as a transformative approach to programming education, allowing learners to engage with the material meaningfully. Instead of traditional methods that sequentially introduce concepts like variables and loops in isolation, emphasizing building projects right from the start provides context and purpose. This strategy maintains learner motivation and helps in forming mental models crucial for problem solving in real-world scenarios. By introducing a tangible end product early on in the learning process, students can see their progress and connect theoretical knowledge with practical application.
The Misconception of Time Investment in Learning
The podcast addresses a common misconception that mastering programming requires approximately 10,000 hours of practice, introducing a more encouraging framework of 20 hours to achieve a functional understanding. Drawing from insights around effective learning curves, it suggests that the initial 20 hours can equip beginners to tackle practical projects, thereby building confidence and retaining motivation. This concept aligns with the idea that focused and structured learning experiences yield quicker insights and proficiency compared to extensive time spent in less directed efforts. By making learning manageable and engaging, newcomers can foster a positive early experience in coding.
The Role of Technology in Effective Learning
The discussion emphasizes the critical balance between technology and education within the EdTech sphere, where innovative teaching methods must complement tech platforms. A notable distinction is made between traditional video-based learning, which often leads to low completion rates, and interactive text-based learning that allows for greater learner engagement and retention. Educative, for example, focuses on creating an interactive experience that mimics the benefits of traditional textbooks while incorporating coding exercises directly into the narrative. This approach not only enhances accessibility but also capitalizes on the learners' familiarity with documentation, thus streamlining the coding education experience.
Dr. Junaid Akhtar is content architect at Educative and an expert in the science of education and specifically, learning to code.
In this episode we discuss:
- what most people get wrong about learning to code and learning in general - the best way to stay motivated - why 10,000 hours to master a subject is BS - project-based learning and why developers do best with this strategy
Dr. Junaid is the kind of person more new coders should be listening to. His advice is based on years of experience as both an educator and a software engineer. He gets it.
I personally use Educative and you can check out their pathway towards software developer here -> Educative Learn-to-Code Content
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