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Sharpening The Axe: Self-Teaching For Developers Aja Hammerly Many of us get a few years into our career and get stuck in a rut. Maybe we stop reading about the latest and greatest in tech. Maybe we start managing and do less coding than we’d like. Maybe life gets in the way and coding becomes drudgery. One way to combat this feeling is to focus on learning. I’ll share what I’ve learned about juggling self improvement with being a professional nerd. I’ll talk about the courses, tools, books, and other resources I’ve found most useful. You’ll leave this talk with several ideas for breaking out of your own developer rut. Help us caption & translate this video! http://amara.org/v/IM6T/
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In her talk titled "Sharpening The Axe: Self-Teaching For Developers," Aja Hammerly discusses strategies for continuous learning and self-improvement in the ever-evolving field of technology. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a proactive approach to learning, especially as many developers may find themselves feeling stagnant in their careers after several years. The talk outlines various methods to enhance one’s knowledge and skills, providing practical advice for developers at any stage of their journey. Key points discussed include: - **Understanding Career Stagnation**: Aja describes her own career path and the "Ferret Point," a stage where she craves new challenges and experiences, emphasizing that long-term learning is crucial for career growth. - **Lifelong Learning**: She stresses that knowledge obtained from formal education is often inadequate for sustaining a long career in tech. The necessity for ongoing education, especially in a field characterized by rapid change, is a major theme. - **Learning Resources**: Aja reviews various resources such as MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) and study groups, discussing their pros and cons. She lists tips for maximizing online course participation and stresses the benefits of structured learning environments. - **Engagement with a Community**: The creation and participation in study groups is encouraged as a way to build relationships and maintain accountability, providing an equal balance of fun and educational rigor. - **Books and Solo Learning**: Aja shares her experience with books, recommending engaging titles that incorporate exercises, but also highlighting the challenges of self-directed learning without structure. - **Projects and Experiments**: She proposes engaging in 'throwaway projects'—coding exercises that may not be completed—which are beneficial for skill development. - **Networking and Speaking**: Aja points out the advantages of public speaking as a method for learning and expanding networks, emphasizing the importance of choosing topics that genuinely interest speakers. - **Setting Time for Learning**: Establishing a routine for learning, such as dedicating time each day, is highlighted as essential for effective retention and growth. - **Mentorship**: She concludes by discussing the value of mentorship, encouraging listeners to seek out mentors and clearly communicate their learning objectives. In conclusion, Aja Hammerly's talk serves as a reminder for developers to stay curious and committed to lifelong learning. By utilizing a mix of structured courses, collaborative study, hands-on projects, and community engagement, developers can effectively combat career stagnation and enhance their skills. Her insights encourage a proactive approach that should lead to unexpected opportunities and personal growth in their professional journeys.
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