I'm a student of computer science and a professional programmer, and I've learned from reading SICP among many other sources, but I don't recommend that route for a novice that does not actively seek out and enjoy reading mathy textbooks.
I know that I prefer fun, interactive, and game-like learning, and you probably do to.
You: I want to learn to program...but I'm too lazy/shy to download anything, or even look at a book - even if its online. But I guess if the computer basically talks to me and walks me through things (interactively in the browser!)...then I might spare 20+ minutes. Me: Great! You have 20 minutes? Stop reading this and tryruby.org. You:... (read more)
I'm a student of computer science and a professional programmer, and I've learned from reading SICP among many other sources, but I don't recommend that route for a novice that does not actively seek out and enjoy reading mathy textbooks. I know that I prefer fun, interactive, and game-like learning, and you probably do to.
You: I want to learn to program...but I'm too lazy/shy to download anything, or even look at a book - even if its online. But I guess if the computer basically talks to me and walks me through things (interactively in the browser!)...then I might spare 20+ minutes.
Me: Great! You have 20 minutes? Stop reading this and tryruby.org.
You:... (read more)