Ask HN: How would you learn Computer Science if time was not an issue?

#1

Post by cyrksoft » Mon, May 09, 2022, 9:16 PM UTC

If you had all the time in the world, how would learn Computer Science? Some people have recommended SICP, while others tell me to avoid it as a beginner.

I have a lot of free time and discipline is not an issue. I want to learn out of personal interest, but I am also interested in hearing opinions for a learning path with a good career outlook.

Re: Ask HN: How would you learn Computer Science if time was not an issue?

#2

Post by mrwnmonm » Mon, May 09, 2022, 10:09 PM UTC

I would build a computer with my hands.

Re: Ask HN: How would you learn Computer Science if time was not an issue?

#3

Post by sircastor » Tue, May 10, 2022, 3:06 AM UTC

mrwnmonm wrote: post #2

I would build a computer with my hands.

I think this is a great way to learn digital logic and understand computing fundamentals.

Re: Ask HN: How would you learn Computer Science if time was not an issue?

#4

Post by tintedfireglass » Tue, May 10, 2022, 8:43 AM UTC

If time and resources wasn't an issue, I'd try to build a computer using full sized transistors.

Re: Ask HN: How would you learn Computer Science if time was not an issue?

#5

Post by simonveal » Tue, May 10, 2022, 10:28 AM UTC

You could have a look at https://teachyourselfcs.com/ which aims to cover most of what you'd get from a degree with books and videos.

Not for complete beginners to programming though.

Re: Ask HN: How would you learn Computer Science if time was not an issue?

#6

Post by cyrksoft » Tue, May 10, 2022, 1:58 PM UTC

simonveal wrote: post #5

You could have a look at https://teachyourselfcs.com/ which aims to cover most of what you'd get from a degree with books and videos. Not for complete beginners to programming though.

Thanks! I've read that site before, but it is not recommended for absolute beginners. I know a bit of programming, but I never had a formal education in Computer Science (I'm an Econ PhD). Is there a more beginner-friendly version of this website?