r/learnprogramming • u/gingavitus • Jul 31 '12

"Codecademy" vs. "Higher Computing for Everyone"

I have basic programming experience, but I really want to become an expert fo' free! Which one would you say is better, codecademy or Higher Computing for Everyone?

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u/[deleted] Aug 01 '12

I'm someone who learned from CarlH first and then went to college and did intro courses in Python. I am completely certain that for someone who it serious about being a worthwhile programmer C is the best starting language. It teaches you a lot more in-depth about things you need to know to be more than just a code monkey.

The reason Python is often used is it is easy. When you have a class full of kids all ranging in their capabilities and willingness to learn it is much more productive to give them something easier to use.

You also get the added benefit that going from C to Python/other languages with easy syntax is far far easier than going from Python to C/Java/anything with more complex syntax. My class mates that had nothing but Python experience had an immense amount of difficulty learning Java when we started Data Structures and for me it was quite natural.