Bits and Bites -- Programming First Steps

Do you think that programmers are born with keyboards in their hands? Programmers are made, not born -- you too can code with the best of them. If you're interested in breaking down the barriers and mystique around programming, join us! Learn to code in a chill, non-judgmental environment.

Your facilitators, Gregg and Amanda, come from non-traditional programming backgrounds, and used to be N00bs. We have no patience for alpha geeks, macho baloney, and geek superiority.

Our big project is a web application that allows you to play a "Choose Your Own Adventure" that you write yourself! (example: http://cyoa.lind-beil.net/).

All instruction is done in the Python language, a free, open-source, cross-platform, powerful yet easy to learn language. We'll help get you going, introducing new concepts weekly. There will be hands-on assignments, lots of time for questions, and a loosely structured feel. Hacking is about liberation and democratizing power.

Prerequisites: Access to a computer where you can run or install programs. Online only is fine, but learning is better in meat space (where you'll need access to a laptop, or really strong arms to haul your desktop).

Programmers with experience are also welcome as learners or mentors.

Please let us know about any requirements around mobility, neurodiversity, or child-care needs, and we will do our best to meet them.

All class materials are at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Choose_Your_Own_Pyventure