How project based learning will change the way you learn
Tutorials are all well and good for learning the fundamentals of a topic but if you really want to learn something fully you need to work on a project. In this post we discuss the importance of project based learning and how it will revolutionise the way you learn, as well as the importance of avoiding tutorial hell.
It can often be incredibly difficult to sit through hours of monotonous tutorials. But there is an alternative — project based learning. Instead of acting as a sponge and desperately hoping to absorb knowledge from a tutorial or guide, you need to actually go ahead and apply this knowledge.
For example, as a programmer, the best way to learn a new tool or framework is to actually use it.
Want to learn Python? Build a text messaging software using Tkinter.
Want to learn C#? Build 2D asteroids in Unity.
Want to learn Javascript? Build a personal website.
This is how you learn. Build a project, take a dive into the deep end and learn while building. It doesn’t matter what project you build, as long as it excites you.
If you spend all your time watching tutorials and not building you will become great at learning from tutorials but will not be able to apply any of the skills.
Try this challenge — learn a programming language without watching a single tutorial. Go to Codewars and try to solve some challenges in that language. If you get stuck, use Google. At the start you will have to search “print statement in Javascript”, “javascript iteration” and “object oriented programming in javascript” but you will learn so much.
Working on a project will also be much more enjoyable — you will get the huge satisfaction of building some awesome projects much much faster. Working on a project that genuinely interests you will be an incredible motivator for you to learn more. For example, I am working on the Tech Startup Community, where I have had to learn an enormous amount whilst building it, ranging from community management to blogging.
To conclude, spend less time consuming tutorials and more time building your passion projects, which will not only be more exciting but more educational.
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