Expectations
Per our group discussion, here are the things you should expect from yourself and from your classmates:
- Honesty: Be truthful in general of course, but also specifically when lessons/topics are tough. Other people might have the same questions, so don't just pretend to understand everything.
- Communication: Everyone has a unique perspective to offer, and we can learn a lot from each other, but only if we communicate well.
- Collaboration: There's no single right answer to any programming problem. Many different approaches will work, so bounce ideas off each other and discuss the pros and cons of different approaches.
- Patience:
- We are a diverse group with varying levels of prior experience with programming. Remember, someone who needs extra help in week 1 might really excel later and be able to offer help. Be respectful and work as a team.
- Just like in the professional world, we're not all using the same setup (operating systems, tools, etc.) so be flexible when someone runs into technical problems you didn't have.
- Persistence: Everyone in this class can be successful if they put in enough time and effort. Don't let yourself give up, even when assignments are tough, and encourage each other!
- Challenge Each Other:
- Some friendly competition can help encourage achievement. Be creative and encourage each other to go above and beyond the requirements for each assignment.
- When helping a classmate, don't always give them the answer right away. Try to point them in the right direction and let them have that "ah ha" moment when the figure it out for themselves.
- When You're Stuck:
- Try to figure it out yourself. Use Google, StackOverflow, tutorials, lesson notes, etc.
- If you still need help, work with classmates. Two (or more) heads are better than one!
- If you still need help, ask Drew and/or Charlie, but be ready to explain the work you already did to solve the issue.
- Be On Time: Treat this like a job. Be professional and responsible.
- Participate: Focus on the present! If you're working on a lab from yesterday or browsing Facebook during a lesson, you won't be able to absorb new material, and your classmates won't benefit from your perspective, or the good questions you might ask.