Back to the classroom Aug03 '06

I really need to get back to school. I need to start taking more classes about programming, managing MySQL databases, and so much more.

It’s easy to get into a "rythym" of "work and life," and not realize that although you are content in your "place in life" - you are also not moving forward. You are just staying in the same spot.

This is where I am at right now. Content, but not moving forward.

Teachers

Sure, you may think you are "keeping up" with all of the latest changes and advancements in your field, but you are only fooling yourself. Without the proper type of education, you can never truly expand your knowledge and mind. And the proper type of education is classroom/ teacher-instructed education. (I know you Abraham Lincoln fanatics will object. Apparently he learned everything from books.)

Don’t get me wrong. Books are wonderful. Web sites are wonderful.

But they’re not enough. They’re only tools that aid in learning. Learning from a teacher. Learning has to come from a teacher. There is no substitute for that.

The interactions that students and teachers have, during the learning process, is irreplaceable.

Never enough

Just realize that everything you know is never enough. There are always ways to learn more, or improve what you already know.

If you think you know everything about your field, you are only fooling yourself.

Specifics for me

Specifically, for me, I’d like to learn more about:

MySQL databases: managing, administering, and getting the best use out of the product. Sure, I may already know how to write some simple queries, here and there, but do I really know what I’m doing? More importantly, do I really know what MySQL is doing? No. I’ll give you that answer now, to both questions.
Programming with ASP.NET: This is a "must" for further development in workplace situations. Many companies rely on Microsoft technologies, and I have to know more than just PHP.
Server administration: This is a "must" too, for web developers, who often find themselves having to be the "Jack of all trades." For web developers, server management and administration is a great skill to have.

There are many more things, but these are the main three right now.

Where to take classes

Harper College is right across from where I work, so I may check out some evening or weekend courses.

Categories: Education , Programming , Web Development

Add Feedback (view all)

Leave feedback

Feedback

Input format: The editor controls below will assist with Markdown syntax.

Status

Sub-status

Your info Name: Email (will not show on page):

Follow new comments via email? (You can turn this off any time)

Do you want your comments emailed to yourself?

Home Page (optional):

let me know if you go back maybe we can take classes at the same time, you know i love school ... Read more.

matthom is published and produced by Matt Thommes - an independent publishing enthusiast, mobile blogger, content creator, informative writer, web developer from Chicago. Never one to conform, Matt intends to promote the effect the web has on our lives, in an effort to intensify, instruct, and clarify all that is happening around us.