[BangPypers] how to learn programming

[Kenneth Gonsalves]

On Saturday 24 Jan 2009 5:09:29 pm Sridhar Ratnakumar wrote:
> Learning low-level programming constructs are certainly useful
> especially in systems programming and writing high performance code.
> What is puzzling me is the claim that these constructs will make one a
> better programmer.

what is the difference between a programmer and a person who writes code? Is 
there a difference? I was told that learning to write code can be done in a 
few weeks, but to become a programmer will take at least 10 years. I was also 
told that learning to play golf takes a few months - but becoming a golfer 
would take at least 10 years. As far as golf is concerned, there is a clear 
distinction between technical ability and an overall integration into the 
spirit of the game. I wonder if the same applies to the concept of a 
programmer. Especially an open source programmer where success implies 
technical skills + the ability to work in a collaborative environment, not 
get angry with criticism, ability to mobilise the end user as a developmental 
partner, write code that anyone can maintain - etc etc., comment and document 
the code you write, respect RFCs and PEPs.

-- 
regards
Kenneth Gonsalves
Associate
NRC-FOSS
http://nrcfosshelpline.in/web/