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By Davy Stevenson Developers are encouraged, and sometimes required, to study Computer Science, however a large percentage of us are self-taught or have entered programming through related fields. This sits in stark contrast to most other engineering disciplines, and this diversity is possibly our greatest strength. Programming sits at the intersection of science, art, and craft. I contend that, given introspection on each of these facets, we will all improve. Learn how formal Computer Science techniques map to real-world problems. Contemplate code as an art form. Think of code as your craft, and continue learning new techniques. Take the time to look at problems through many lenses, and form diverse teams that allow us to solve problems from many different angles. Help us caption & translate this video! http://amara.org/v/FG11/
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In her talk titled "Ruby as Science, Art & Craft," presented at the Ruby on Ales 2014 conference, Davy Stevenson explores the multifaceted nature of programming, arguing that it lies at the intersection of science, art, and craft. With a background in GIS software development at Esri, she encourages attendees to reflect on how these aspects of programming can enhance their skills and insights, regardless of their formal training in computer science. The key points discussed in her presentation include: - **Diversity in Programming Backgrounds**: Stevenson notes that many developers are self-taught or come from related fields, highlighting the strength of this diversity compared to more traditional engineering disciplines. - **Computer Science Fundamentals**: Emphasizing the varied structure of computer science departments, she shares that students may graduate without practical coding experience, focusing instead on theoretical aspects such as algorithm study and Big O notation. - **Algorithm Analysis**: Stevenson breaks down different complexity classes of algorithms, illustrating their performance using examples like the convex hull problem, which plays a crucial role in various fields including computer graphics and GIS. - **Programming as Art**: She posits that Ruby’s expressiveness allows code to be viewed as an artistic medium. Just as artists use a palette to create, programmers can develop their unique styles within Ruby, which reflects their individual expression. - **Collaboration in Coding**: Highlighting coding as a social activity, Stevenson points out that effective collaboration and shared coding styles foster innovation and creativity, contrasting the individuality required in personal coding styles. - **The Journey of Mastery**: Stevenson compares learning programming to mastering a craft, suggesting that continuous learning and adaptation are crucial. She uses her experience in knitting to metaphorically illustrate how mastery evolves through practice and exposure to new techniques. - **Beauty in Code**: The concept of 'beautiful code' is examined, suggesting it goes beyond aesthetic appeal to involve clarity and constructive design that facilitates usability for other programmers. - **Embracing Diversity**: Stevenson emphasizes the importance of diverse problem-solving approaches within programming communities, advocating for inclusion and empathy that can strengthen the programming ecosystem. In conclusion, the talk reaffirms that programming is a blend of scientific rigor, artistic expression, and crafted skill. Stevenson encourages developers to explore different perspectives and cultivate a collaborative spirit that elevates the programming community as a whole, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and innovative solutions.
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