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OSSU: Path to a free, self-taught education in computer science

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Re: OSSU: Path to a free, self-taught education in computer science

#72

A lot of comments are dismissing this because it doesn't provide a credential upon completion. But you don't get mad at a hammer for not putting staples in paper, nor get mad at a stapler for not putting nails in wood. This is a tool that gives empowers you to educate yourself, not a tool that gives you a credential. As someone with a deep love of learning and knowledge, I am delighted that this exists.

A lot of comments are dismissing this because it doesn't provide a credential upon completion.

That’s rich considering how quickly (and aggressively) software developers dismiss all other forms of credentials (licensing, certifications, advanced degrees), especially on HN.

Re: OSSU: Path to a free, self-taught education in computer science

#73
post #49
post #34

Earlier quoted context omitted.

I didn’t go to college, and I don’t include an education section on my resume. In 23 years in the industry, I’ve never been asked.

With 23 years in industry, you were joining back when CS degrees were less common. This is like the "boomer handshake" meme. Nowadays you need a degree.

do you think it's possible to work at companies like amazon and google without a degree at all?

Re: OSSU: Path to a free, self-taught education in computer science

#74
post #68

A lot of comments are dismissing this because it doesn't provide a credential upon completion. But you don't get mad at a hammer for not putting staples in paper, nor get mad at a stapler for not putting nails in wood. This is a tool that gives empowers you to educate yourself, not a tool that gives you a credential. As someone with a deep love of learning and knowledge, I am delighted that this exists.

Exactly. I think if you're the sort of person who can self teach yourself an entire CS degree in your spare time, that's going to look very good on your CV, accreditation or not. The issue would be getting past the automated CV checkers or recruiters that will throw out any applicants that don't have a certain grade

Nobody looks at grades unless you are a fresh graduate with nothing else to populate on a resume.

Re: OSSU: Path to a free, self-taught education in computer science

#76

Earlier quoted context omitted.

Why does that matter? Think of this from the perspective of a bootcamp grad working in tech, for example. That person might want to complement their practical skills with theoretical knowledge and deeper understanding. That understanding can help them hone their skills and develop professionally as an engineer. There are lots of people for whom this content is very valuable. Many of those people don't necessarily car…

What is in CS that makes it a field that can be self taught? Can you become a self taught physicist? I think you can't. Then what is the difference between studies in CS and physics?

> Then what is the difference between studies in CS and physics?

The former needs paper and pencil. The latter requires expensive equipment to prove your theories. At best you can learn theoretical physics by yourself and formulate some hypotheses. Proving them might often be a completely different matter.

Re: OSSU: Path to a free, self-taught education in computer science

#78

A lot of comments are dismissing this because it doesn't provide a credential upon completion. But you don't get mad at a hammer for not putting staples in paper, nor get mad at a stapler for not putting nails in wood. This is a tool that gives empowers you to educate yourself, not a tool that gives you a credential. As someone with a deep love of learning and knowledge, I am delighted that this exists.

Self directed learning is an invaluable skill for anyone, credential or not.

Re: OSSU: Path to a free, self-taught education in computer science

#79

A lot of comments are dismissing this because it doesn't provide a credential upon completion. But you don't get mad at a hammer for not putting staples in paper, nor get mad at a stapler for not putting nails in wood. This is a tool that gives empowers you to educate yourself, not a tool that gives you a credential. As someone with a deep love of learning and knowledge, I am delighted that this exists.

Speaking of the subject, if someone DOES want a credential and already knows a lot of CS, are there good online courses that provide sped up process? I have been programming since 20 years ago, am a lead developer at a large company, but have no degree. Sadly some companies like Google do require it to even consider submissions, so I wonder if I should enroll an online course just for the paper.
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