Programming in the 50s to 80s: Methods and Resources
Learning to program from the 1950s to the 1980s was quite different from todayrsquo;s methods. During this era, several key approaches and resources were available to aspiring programmers. From formal education at universities to self-directed study and experimentation, the journey to programming mastery was a dynamic and often informal one.
Formal Education
University Courses: Many programmers learned through formal computer science programs that began to emerge in the 1960s. These early courses often focused on the mathematical foundations, algorithms, and languages like Fortran and COBOL. Universities laid a solid theoretical groundwork, preparing students for more advanced programming concepts.
Technical Schools: Some technical institutes offered programs specifically in programming and computing. These schools provided practical, hands-on training that complemented the theoretical knowledge gained in universities.
Books and Manuals
Textbooks: Numerous textbooks were published on programming languages and computer science concepts. These books were a key resource for understanding programming fundamentals. For instance, textbooks on topics like data structures, algorithms, and systems programming provided a comprehensive guide to the field.
Language-Specific Guides: Books on specific languages like Fortran, BASIC, or Assembly provided tutorials and examples. These guides were particularly useful for practical, step-by-step learning. For example, a book on Fortran could teach readers how to write simple programs and gradually build up to more complex ones.
Self-Study and Experimentation
Home Computers: The late 1970s and early 1980s saw the rise of home computers like the Apple II, Commodore 64, and TRS-80. These machines came with manuals that often included programming tutorials. Kids and hobbyists could experiment with programming languages directly on their machines, fostering a hands-on learning experience.
Magazines: Computer magazines such as Byte and Creative Computing featured code listings and articles that helped individuals learn programming through hands-on practice. These magazines were a valuable resource for staying updated with the latest programming techniques and industry trends.
Community and Clubs
User Groups: Many early computer enthusiasts formed clubs or user groups where they shared knowledge, tips, and programming techniques. These gatherings were often informal and allowed for peer learning. Members could collaborate, share projects, and provide support to one another.
Hackathons and Competitions: Some communities organized programming competitions that encouraged learning through practical challenges. These events provided a platform for participants to showcase their skills and learn from others in a competitive setting.
Online Resources
Bulletin Board Systems (BBS): By the late 1980s, BBS allowed users to share files and information, including programming resources and code snippets. This early form of online community enabled programmers to collaborate and exchange knowledge beyond the confines of their local settings.
Conclusion
Overall, learning to program during this period often required a mix of formal education, self-directed study through books and manuals, and community engagement. Many young learners were motivated by curiosity and the thrill of creating something new, often using whatever resources were available to them at the time. This era laid the foundation for the rapid technological advancements and programming practices we see today.