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It is a common
occurence in IT that users of a particular technology WILL get stuck.
It is a given, nobody is immune. However, one of the most useful
skills you may learn from this course is "how to get unstuck." In
the real world, successful people who find themselves stuck do several
things such as:
(1) systematically play around
with the technology,
(2) ask a co-worker or friend
for help, or
(3) ask an expert for help.
Hopefully you’ll explore all
three means to get unstuck in this course. Here
are some suggestions:
Debugging
When you first "get
stuck," take a deep breath! Step back for a moment. Look
carefully at the work you have just done. Try changing one thing and see
what effect it has. You may also want to check the class bulletin board to
see if others have encountered (and solved) a similar problem. We’ll talk
more about this sort of strategy – called "debugging," during
the course.
Ask a classmate…
Get to know two or three students in the course; exchange email
addresses; ask each other for help when you get stuck – try to share ideas
about how to figure out the problem rather than telling your classmate
the answer. You’ll learn as much by helping others else find their
mistakes as you will by finding your own.
Consult with the
Course Staff
Your Instructors
and Teaching Assistants will hold regular office hours each week.
You can also make a separate appointment if needed. You will get more
out of your time with the Instructor
if you come prepared with a specific question in mind. You may also email
your question.
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