software and web development advice

geotrig

Hi guys, Just looking for some advice and any would be greatly appricated.
I Would love to get into some sort of software development programming etc and was looking around for courses and was really confused with all the differences and what to do etc so i thought asking some experts may help me

Anyway i did't link to the course but below is a brief discription of one that i came across .
Would this cover what i need or is it lacking in areas ?

If this is not allowed here please ignore and lock /delete.


B.Sc. in Computing
The first two years of the programme covers the following topics:

• Mathematics for computing
• Information systems: foundations of e-business
• Introduction to Java and object-oriented programming
• Introduction to computing and the internet
• Database systems
• Graphical object-oriented & internet programming in Java
• Data communications and enterprise networking
• Software engineering, algorithm design and analysis.

Students then further specialise in their third year

RealistSpy

Hi,

I really don't understand the question. If you are asking if the course your referring to is good, the answer would be yes. It seems to have the right balance of subject or topics.

Go for it.

UnknownSpecies

The course looks pretty good. It might possibly be a lot to take in if you have no programming or IT background. Learning Java from scratch as a first language could be tough. Same with algorithm design. However, I'd go for it. I'm doing a BSc in Computer Science at the moment and I enjoy it. Quite a rewarding course.

geotrig

RealistSpy wrote: »

Hi,

I really don't understand the question. If you are asking if the course your referring to is good, the answer would be yes. It seems to have the right balance of subject or topics.

Go for it.

dorgasm wrote: »

The course looks pretty good. It might possibly be a lot to take in if you have no programming or IT background. Learning Java from scratch as a first language could be tough. Same with algorithm design. However, I'd go for it. I'm doing a BSc in Computer Science at the moment and I enjoy it. Quite a rewarding course.

thanks guys, @yeah baisically i was wondering if it was a good course but was also wasnt sure if it was a balanced course or leaning too much to java..

Razzuh

It's really hard to say if it's good or not from the description. If that's the BSc in one of the Irish universities though it should be decent enough. I really couldn't tell you if one is particularly better than the others. In reality, what you get out of a course depends a lot on the lecturers you get and the effort you put in (which will only be easy if you're interested).

Java is a popular language now for teaching programming. I wouldn't worry about learning to program with it, I did myself. You should get some exposure to other languages but probably not as much. They're likely to try to teach you how to program instead of teaching you Java, if you get me. If you have an idea of what you want to do after and you know that a particular language is popular in that area, then I'd suggest you try to find a side-project (open-source maybe) to work on to become familiar with it once you've got a good grasp of Java.

Hope this helps.

geotrig

Razzuh wrote: »

If that's the BSc in one of the Irish universities though it should be decent enough. .

Lads thanks for all the advice and thanks for taking the time to answer,(last thing )I'm just trying to work through all and any options available and rate them on suitability, The only other course that I came across was the bsc in computing and IT course on Open university and was was wondering what the general consensus is on this course and would it suit and more importantly if the industry would recognise it ? a breif outline in the spoiler.supposedly a level 8 on the nfq

Stage 1

You’ll start your Stage 1 studies with My digital life (TU100)My digital life::While you’re learning about tomorrow's technology why not help build it? My digital life takes you on a journey from the origins of information technology through to the familiar computers of today, and on to tomorrow’s radical technologies. You'll get hands-on experience of designing, building and programming the small, ubiquitous computers that will become increasingly common over the next decade. The profound technological, economic, political and ethical changes brought about by information technology will affect every one of us. This key introductory Level 1 course will help you prepare for that – think of it as an online survival kit for the twenty-first century. (60 credits), which gives you hands-on experience of designing, building and programming the small, ubiquitous computers that will become increasingly common over the next decade. You’ll also learn about the profound technological, economic, political and ethical changes brought about by information technology that will affect every one of us.
Next, you’ll develop your mathematical skills, choosing one of two 30-credit modules – Using mathematics (MST121)Using mathematics::This broad, enjoyable introduction to university-level mathematics assumes some prior knowledge, as described on our MathsChoices website. The course shows how mathematics can be applied to answer some key questions from science, technology, and everyday life. You will study a range of fundamental techniques, including calculus, recurrence relations, matrices and vectors and statistics, and use integrated specialist mathematical software to solve problems. The skills of communicating results and defining problems are also developed. This is not a course for beginners – at the MathsChoices website (mathschoices.open.ac.uk) there are quizzes, sample material and advice to help you determine if this course is right for you. or Discovering mathematics (MU123)Discovering mathematics::This key introductory Level 1 course provides a gentle start to the study of mathematics. It will help you to integrate mathematical ideas into your everyday thinking and build your confidence in using and learning mathematics. You’ll cover statistical, graphical, algebraic, trigonometric and numerical concepts and techniques, and be introduced to mathematical modelling. Formal calculus is not included and you are not expected to have any previous knowledge of algebra. The skills introduced will be ideal if you plan to study more mathematics courses, such as Using mathematics (MST121). It is also suitable for users of mathematics in other areas, such as computing, science, technology, social science, humanities, business and education. – to underpin your further study of computing and enhance your employability.
Finally, the 30-credit module – Technologies in practice (TM129)Technologies in practice::This course provides an opportunity to sample some of the key areas in computing and information technology. You will be introduced to three subjects as tasters for your future studies and career: networking, Linux and robotics. Studying these subjects will enable you to develop essential skills if you are considering future employment in the computing and IT industry. You will be applying what you learn to develop a portfolio, to demonstrate your skills and understanding in these areas to potential employers. By studying this key introductory Level 1 course you can also begin to explore where your future career ambitions might lie. – will offer you an opportunity to sample some key technologies enabling you to develop essential skills and to explore where your future study and career aspirations may lie.

Stage 2

At Stage 2, you’ll begin your specialist studies in software development. You’ll learn how to specify and design computer programs, and develop your programming skills using the object-oriented programming language Java. You’ll use industry standard software tools such as an integrated development environment and the Unified Modelling Language (UML); and you’ll also learn about the analytical techniques and processes essential for designing, specifying and implementing a software system including a graphical user interface.
The solutions development option explores the application development processes that underpin the world wide web. You’ll learn how to analyse requirements, plan, design, implement and test a range of web applications, and how to develop programs using Visual Basic.

Stage 3

Stage 3 studies build on the knowledge, skills and understanding of the specialist subjects you studied at Stage 2.

You’ll conclude your studies with an individual project on a topic of your choice, which you’ll research, develop and write up – presenting your findings in a substantial report that you can show employers as a portfolio of your work.

edit: sorry i thought the spoiler hide it ,didn't realise it just blacked it out o\

Clanket

Are you coming from school or are you a mature student?

geotrig

Clanket wrote: »

Are you coming from school or are you a mature student?

mature student ,hence looking at all options available

StitchK

First, IT is a great industry to get into. There will always be IT jobs, the pay is good, you can travel very easily, and software companies are usually great employers.

Second, if you already have an undergraduate degree, consider a two years masters in comp. science, or software engineering. It only takes a semester or two to teach you a programming language. There are a lot of similarities between programming languages. When you pick one up you'll pick up others a lot quicker. It shouldn't take 3-4 years to learn this stuff. A lot of courses say you have to have a relevant undergrad, such as science or maths, but they're very flexible on this. Contact the course administrator.

Third, Linux. Embrace it. I'm not a fan, but it's designed by IT professionals for IT professionals. A lot of employers use Linux. If it's not on your CV you're cutting out a very large portion of the IT sector.

Last, and probably most importantly, you need experience. If you're doing an undergrad, check if they do a 6 month work placement. It's incredibly valuable. If they don't, your best route into the industry is through graduate programs. All the big companies run them. You'll see them at recruitment fairs.

Clanket

If you don't have other qualifications and are starting from scratch, have a look at the Computing degree course in NCI. It's great for mature students.

geotrig

Clanket wrote: »

If you don't have other qualifications and are starting from scratch, have a look at the Computing degree course in NCI. It's great for mature students.

Aye it looks like a great course, unfortunately i'm not dublin based hence i was also looking at the open uni course.

@stitchk ,thanks your advise is taken on board,linux was something that i would like to try and incorporate but will proabably have to do it seperatly

Mmmm_Lemony

geotrig wrote: »

Hi guys, Just looking for some advice and any would be greatly appricated.
I Would love to get into some sort of software development programming etc and was looking around for courses and was really confused with all the differences and what to do etc so i thought asking some experts may help me

Anyway i did't link to the course but below is a brief discription of one that i came across .
Would this cover what i need or is it lacking in areas ?

If this is not allowed here please ignore and lock /delete.


B.Sc. in Computing
The first two years of the programme covers the following topics:

• Mathematics for computing
• Information systems: foundations of e-business
• Introduction to Java and object-oriented programming
• Introduction to computing and the internet
• Database systems
• Graphical object-oriented & internet programming in Java
• Data communications and enterprise networking
• Software engineering, algorithm design and analysis.

Students then further specialise in their third year

As clanket said, NCI have a decent course. I've just finished 2nd year there myself so if you have any specific questions I'd be happy to answer. The language is also Java but is a good enough language for learning concepts. The specialisation occurs in 4th year, not 3rd, which gives you more time to find your feet and an area you are interested in. It's by no means a perfect college, but some of the lecturers are excellent.

If you have not done anything like this before (i.e. IT/Programming) then I would suggest trying a module or 2 on the following sites.

Udacity
Coursera

Both are free. And both are really well structured. I'm actually working my way through the CS101 with Udacity myself and have found it really enjoyable so far. I plan on doing a couple more before next semester. You can start some of the udacity ones at any time and coursera every 8 weeks or something.

They will at the very least identify if you have an aptitude for it (aside from an actual aptitude test, which would also be an idea), and save you the expense, should you decide it's not for you. They will also bridge a gap and make the new content more manageable. I would highly recommend testing the water with these MOOC's first. Other options would be http://www.thenewboston.com which is also a decent resource for starting off with a language.

As I said, any questions on NCI, let me know and best of luck with whatever choice you make.

MungoMan

StitchK wrote: »

First, IT is a great industry to get into. There will always be IT jobs, the pay is good, you can travel very easily, and software companies are usually great employers.

I agree, It's not a bad industry to get into, but it's not as good as it was around the turn of the last millennium. Yes there will always be IT jobs, but the pay is not better than many other industries. Have a look at jobsites for IT jobs regarding pay. Accountants, Doctors, Law jobs generally earn more than IT professionals. Yes it's great for travel.

I dont think software companies are not great employers. They fire people very quickly if they are not performing (technical word is make them redundant). Sofware companies exist to make money for their owners/shareholders, they hire people to generate profits.
But on saying that, if someone is very good at their job (good apptitude for IT, hard working, good personality for working in team environments) they can do very well in IT.

StitchK wrote: »

Linux. Embrace it. I'm not a fan, but it's designed by IT professionals for IT professionals. A lot of employers use Linux. If it's not on your CV you're cutting out a very large portion of the IT sector.

To be honest, Linux is not that widely used in IT compared to Windows. A relatively small number of applications are developed to run on Linux. Have a look at jobsites, and do a search for Linux, and you wont get too many hits. Windows and the .net framework is much more popular than Linux
[/QUOTE]

geotrig

Guys thanks for taking the time to answer
,anyone have any thoughts on the open uni course ,is it worth doing etc thanks

You’ll start your Stage 1 studies with My digital life (TU100)My digital life::While you’re learning about tomorrow's technology why not help build it? My digital life takes you on a journey from the origins of information technology through to the familiar computers of today, and on to tomorrow’s radical technologies. You'll get hands-on experience of designing, building and programming the small, ubiquitous computers that will become increasingly common over the next decade. The profound technological, economic, political and ethical changes brought about by information technology will affect every one of us. This key introductory Level 1 course will help you prepare for that – think of it as an online survival kit for the twenty-first century. (60 credits), which gives you hands-on experience of designing, building and programming the small, ubiquitous computers that will become increasingly common over the next decade. You’ll also learn about the profound technological, economic, political and ethical changes brought about by information technology that will affect every one of us.
Next, you’ll develop your mathematical skills, choosing one of two 30-credit modules – Using mathematics (MST121)Using mathematics::This broad, enjoyable introduction to university-level mathematics assumes some prior knowledge, as described on our MathsChoices website. The course shows how mathematics can be applied to answer some key questions from science, technology, and everyday life. You will study a range of fundamental techniques, including calculus, recurrence relations, matrices and vectors and statistics, and use integrated specialist mathematical software to solve problems. The skills of communicating results and defining problems are also developed. This is not a course for beginners – at the MathsChoices website (mathschoices.open.ac.uk) there are quizzes, sample material and advice to help you determine if this course is right for you. or Discovering mathematics (MU123)Discovering mathematics::This key introductory Level 1 course provides a gentle start to the study of mathematics. It will help you to integrate mathematical ideas into your everyday thinking and build your confidence in using and learning mathematics. You’ll cover statistical, graphical, algebraic, trigonometric and numerical concepts and techniques, and be introduced to mathematical modelling. Formal calculus is not included and you are not expected to have any previous knowledge of algebra. The skills introduced will be ideal if you plan to study more mathematics courses, such as Using mathematics (MST121). It is also suitable for users of mathematics in other areas, such as computing, science, technology, social science, humanities, business and education. – to underpin your further study of computing and enhance your employability.
Finally, the 30-credit module – Technologies in practice (TM129)Technologies in practice::This course provides an opportunity to sample some of the key areas in computing and information technology. You will be introduced to three subjects as tasters for your future studies and career: networking, Linux and robotics. Studying these subjects will enable you to develop essential skills if you are considering future employment in the computing and IT industry. You will be applying what you learn to develop a portfolio, to demonstrate your skills and understanding in these areas to potential employers. By studying this key introductory Level 1 course you can also begin to explore where your future career ambitions might lie. – will offer you an opportunity to sample some key technologies enabling you to develop essential skills and to explore where your future study and career aspirations may lie.

Stage 2

At Stage 2, you’ll begin your specialist studies in software development. You’ll learn how to specify and design computer programs, and develop your programming skills using the object-oriented programming language Java. You’ll use industry standard software tools such as an integrated development environment and the Unified Modelling Language (UML); and you’ll also learn about the analytical techniques and processes essential for designing, specifying and implementing a software system including a graphical user interface.
The solutions development option explores the application development processes that underpin the world wide web. You’ll learn how to analyse requirements, plan, design, implement and test a range of web applications, and how to develop programs using Visual Basic.

Stage 3

Stage 3 studies build on the knowledge, skills and understanding of the specialist subjects you studied at Stage 2.

You’ll conclude your studies with an individual project on a topic of your choice, which you’ll research, develop and write up – presenting your findings in a substantial report that you can show employers as a portfolio of your work

Mmmm_Lemony

I've tried distance education about 7 years ago but it didn't work for me. I feel there is a lot to be said for a classroom environment and the social aspect of group interaction. Almost all projects are group based the idea being, the college is preparing you for a 'real world' environment.

Having said that, it does work for others, but be warned it can be harder to manage a study schedule when the deliverables are 'open'. With class time, you are forced to keep up at a certain level which encourages a more structured approach.

I would recommend NCI/DIT/Blanch before the OU purely for these 2 reasons, particularly if a lot of time has passed since you have last studied in school.

geotrig

Mmmm_Lemony wrote: »

I've tried distance education about 7 years ago but it didn't work for me. I feel there is a lot to be said for a classroom environment and the social aspect of group interaction. Almost all projects are group based the idea being, the college is preparing you for a 'real world' environment.

Having said that, it does work for others, but be warned it can be harder to manage a study schedule when the deliverables are 'open'. With class time, you are forced to keep up at a certain level which encourages a more structured approach.

I would recommend NCI/DIT/Blanch before the OU purely for these 2 reasons, particularly if a lot of time has passed since you have last studied in school.

yeah this is not the 1st distance course i've done and am well aware of the hardships of doing it this way ,tbh I would perfer to do the nci course but as i'm not dublin based it really not an option

Clanket

How far are you from Dublin?

There's a lad in my class from Kells and a couple of others from a good bit out.

I'd definately prefer 'structured classroom' learning. I tried to teach myself Java last year but found it very difficult to do in my own time and in a scattered way (Head First Java combined with YouTube etc.).

Anyhoo you seem to have your head set on distance learning so good luck to you.

geotrig

Clanket wrote: »

How far are you from Dublin?

There's a lad in my class from Kells and a couple of others from a good bit out.

I'd definately prefer 'structured classroom' learning. I tried to teach myself Java last year but found it very difficult to do in my own time and in a scattered way (Head First Java combined with YouTube etc.).

Anyhoo you seem to have your head set on distance learning so good luck to you.

I'm in Limerick so a trip to dublin is out and in most cases so is a day time course so it has to either a evening course or distance learning ,basically though i just want to know if the OU course is good enough to get into programming etc?

Mmmm_Lemony

I'm sure it is. I would advise testing the water first though with CS101 from Udacity.

geotrig

Mmmm_Lemony wrote: »

I'm sure it is. I would advise testing the water first though with CS101 from Udacity.

thanks ,half way through unit 2 thanks to your links