How to Learn Fast and Teach Effectively - Where Coding and Psychology Meet

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Title: Learn Faster & Teach Effectively: A Software Developer's Guide

IAB Content Taxonomy Category: Technology & Computing > Computer Programming

Names: Hannah

Locations: Not mentioned

Companies: Github

Keywords/phrases/Hightlights: Software developer, judgment and decision making, psychology, learning to code, teaching code, focused mode, diffused mode, memory improvement, short term memory, long term memory, chunks, learning strategies, code teaching strategies, multi-tasking, syntax highlighting, learning motivation, problem-solving, retrieval methods,

Blog Tags: Software Development, Coding, Psychology, Learning Strategies, Teaching Strategies

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With the continuously evolving technology landscape, adaptability is key. Hannah, a software developer at Github, shares her insights on how to learn quickly and teach effectively in the world of coding.

Your brain is constructed of two focal modes that greatly influence learning: the focused and the diffused modes. Focused mode involves intense concentration on tasks, while diffused mode allows us to look at the bigger picture, enabling creative thought and problem-solving. Seizing the power of these two modes to enhance learning starts with regularly switching between them; giving your brain the chance to absorb and reflect upon the information it has received.

Memory plays a quintessential role here. Long believed to consist of seven slots, recent trends suggest our short-term memory might support only four. The question remains: how do we move information from our short-term to long-term memory? The answer lies in creating "chunks," defined as units of memory that the brain can easily process.

As your learning prowess grows, these chunks begin to hold more intricate concepts, which you can then connect, resulting in a deeper understanding. Creating these chunks involves focused attention, an understanding of the topic, repetition, and, importantly, practice. Various learning strategies exist, with recalling information from memory proving the most effective. Test yourself often, as this provides immediate feedback on your understanding and retention of the concept.

When applying these principles to learning and teaching code, starting with an overview helps to build a general understanding. Note-taking aids in consolidating information, while avoiding multitasking fosters an uninterrupted flow of thought. Make sure to revisit previously learned topics and challenge yourself with different and similar tasks to solidify your understanding.

One underrated technique to embed learning is to teach it. You can explain it to your peers, start a tech blog, or engage in light discussions on online platforms. Utilize your time before bed to review what you have learned. This is when our brain consolidates memories - a key to long-term retention of learned material. It is also a time for winding down, giving your brain the chance to operate in diffused mode and potentially solve harder problems that were seemingly unsolvable during focused mode.

Software developers benefit immensely from feedback, such as syntax highlighting in text editors, tests, and code reviews. Pair programming is another excellent source of feedback and knowledge exchange.

Maintaining motivation during this learning curve requires picking problems that appeal to your interests, engaging in active learning with a buddy, and setting a goal for your learning journey to keep you accountable.

To maintain the impetus of learning, employ retrieval as a quick learning strategy in idle times. The habit of making a switch between focused learning and relaxing, and proactive recaps will ensure continuous progress.

When teaching code, understanding your audience, and aligning your teachings with their goals is crucial. Keep the learning experience engaging and interactive with questions and exercises. Bring in relevant examples and visuals while summarizing routinely. Most importantly, provide an avenue for clearing doubts and receiving feedback.

Certainly, the road to mastering a new skill, such as coding, is challenging. Yet, with persistent effort, the right strategies, and a conducive learning environment, you'll find the process to be enjoyable and rewarding.

Having elaborated on her personal approach to learning and teaching code, Hannah welcomes everyone to connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, fostering an open conversation on enhancing learning outcomes in tech.


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