I have used a lot of different languages throughout the years and read many manuals. I believe that I have a good understanding of the logic involved in writing programs or scripts. Once I understand what is required I can usually figure out what I need to do to accomplish a given task. Learning a new language mostly involves learning new syntax.
When I found out that the book requirement for this class was a Head First book I was a little disappointed. I have not had a chance to look at this Head First book yet however, I was exposed to one in IS247 and I found it difficult to read. Not because it was too technical but because it is too simple. There are too many distractions and, things seem to be scattered. It just seems to be a lot of “beating around the bush”. I prefer a book that has a more direct explanation or overview and is a good Reference. For anyone who has not looked at the book yet you can see it here.
I tried to read The Head First book for IS247 and finally had to set it aside. I will probably look for a more traditional AJAX book if anyone has any good suggestions.
I felt just the opposite about the Head First book for IS 247. I thought I understood the content a little more because it was such an easy read.I do agree that there were a lot of graphics that got in the way of reading what you needed to know though. I hope that the AJAX book is as easy for me or I will be trying to find a new book as well.
ReplyDeleteTerry,
ReplyDeleteI was actually pretty excited to see that such simple book was chosen for this class. Writing code has never been a strong point of mine and I'm hoping the Head First book breaks things down for me a little better than other programming books I've used. I guess this proves that each of us learns in a different way. Good luck finding a book that better suits you!
Terry,
ReplyDeleteYour insight and experience is always appreciated. Thanks to your post I opened the book and can appreciate what you're saying. It's definitely a unique style. I'm not sure if it will work for me but if it doesn't I'm sure you'll have some recommendations. :-)
I am somewhat on the fence with this book, i do like it's ease of use and reduncy, i will probably pick-up a second book that is a little more of a hard-core reference to pair with it. But i did defiantely appreciate the price, got is from Amazon for $12, so even it i buy a second book i still feel i am doing alright. This is my firt headstart book and i am only 2 chapters in so my opinion may change to fully one side or the other. But thanks Terry for your reveiw and opinions of the book.
ReplyDeleteI have read the first few chapters also and felt that maybe with further explanation and more examples from Professor Drake we will begin to understand why this book was chosen for this class. In addition to books there seems to be an abundant amount of information on the web which should come in handy with solving questions. By the way, I actually purchased my book at Borders over the summer not even knowing that this would be the book we would be using in class, what a coincidence! Unfortunately, even after the Borders discount, it wasn't as cheap as $12.
ReplyDelete