This seems like a terrible idea unless you specifically want to learn how to program specific kinds of things on specific languages.
That said, I can see how this could be useful to someone who is already well versed in programming and computer science, and has other types of project experience—they have a solid foundation to build and reflect on.
is there another option? I personally would probably never have taken up programming at all if I had to sit through a year of high level concepts before I tried to apply a compiler to some source code.
Actual project work solving actual clients’ problems in an area that matches your probable future employment. Consider doing something for free (without deadlines) just for experience.
Client problems are typically very different from exercises in compiler or rendering architecture, or whatever, unless you happen to be striving for those exact niches, which just might be a pipe dream unless you’re spectacularly talented in abstract problem solving in low-level languages on multiple hardware platforms and capable of furthering those technical niches in some way that someone benefits from enough to keep employing you.
Comments
This seems like a terrible idea unless you specifically want to learn how to program specific kinds of things on specific languages.
That said, I can see how this could be useful to someone who is already well versed in programming and computer science, and has other types of project experience—they have a solid foundation to build and reflect on.
Many people learn from specifics and generalise later.
Do you think there's anything wrong with that?
I think there is a high chance that once they learn to use a middle-handed hammer, too many things look like middle-handed nails.
is there another option? I personally would probably never have taken up programming at all if I had to sit through a year of high level concepts before I tried to apply a compiler to some source code.
Of course you need something practical to start with, but do you start with a todo app or trying to build a compiler?
what would you recommend as a supplement to someone that is currently studying computer science to better learn programming?
Actual project work solving actual clients’ problems in an area that matches your probable future employment. Consider doing something for free (without deadlines) just for experience.
Client problems are typically very different from exercises in compiler or rendering architecture, or whatever, unless you happen to be striving for those exact niches, which just might be a pipe dream unless you’re spectacularly talented in abstract problem solving in low-level languages on multiple hardware platforms and capable of furthering those technical niches in some way that someone benefits from enough to keep employing you.
Freelancing as a student is underrated