Re: Suggestion for Programming Languages

From: "Stephen Johnston" <pepe(at)gainsay.com>
>
>         In the final tally, you will probably find Javascript to be on of
the easier languages so you might just want to *start* with that!

This is what I've been told by other folks on the list, as well.  But I know
I still need to learn other languages.  So while I'm between classes, taking
care of other business, I thought I'd test the waters and delve into just
one other language - you know, just to keep the ball rolling.

>         Working on the Internet is like a juggling act. Unless you a part
of a very large development team, you will work with many different
languages and until you find your niche you will be learning new ones.  In
my typical day I can program in five different languages! I have few core
languages, but certain projects always require something else. I would say
that your focus should not be on learning one language in and out, but on
learning good programming practices. Just about any language can help you do
that.

Yes, this is my main goal but there's just so darned much to learn! :)  And
of course I want to learn it all RIGHT NOW! :)  Be an expert before I even
get my toes wet.  Luckily I've found that I have a great passion for
techie-type stuff, which came as a total surprise to me.  I never thought
for a second that I'd want to get 'under the hood' of Web Designing to see
what makes it all tick but I do.  And learning good programming skills is at
the top of my 'to do' list.

>         I would recommend learning Javascript, PHP, or Perl. Javascript
and PHP are two rock solid programming language that are accessible and
marketable. I would stay away from VB as a first language for no other
reason than that it is quirky and if you get in the VB mind frame it may
hold you back, from learning new languages, more than the other languages
will IMO. Perl is quirky also, but good Perl knowledge can take you far.

Perl is the language I've decided to take on first - then JavaScript - then
(echoes off into the distance as all the possibilities begin to make my head
swim).

Thanks very much, Stephen; Lord know I can use every spec of advice I can
get! :)

Judi

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