"Many hundreds of people, mostly probably from *some* programming or scripting background, *have* managed to find their way through the docs, this list, and the absolutely essential trial-and-error that is part of learning any practical skill and have become proficient enough to produce satisfying and satisfactory solutions."
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I sorted my saved list emails by 'Name' and did not come up with anything like "many hundreds of people" as unique names. This is a very active and useful list, but the number of folks who request help once or twice and then don't return should not be considered as being among those who have 'become proficient'. The main contributers to this list are actually a fairly small number of talented and friendly folks, who regularly challenge and assist each other. They also generously assist beginners when asked. However, if I were the company, I'd worry (and do something) about the regular messages concerning the difficulty of learning and lack of docs.
Like the long-haired love children, the number of ex-Hcarders is fixed and diminishing. The population of programmers trained in another language and being converted is a more current group of potential customers, but if that income stream doesn't satisfy the company, they had better look to serving the other group - those new to programming. I suggest two lines of support: materials directly aimed at the total beginner (Dan's book is a good start); and materials directly aimed at those who teach new programmers (regardless of grade level). Teachers do NOT have the time to create or rewrite confusing docs or sample code, or create useful and meaningful programming problems and assignments. Providing a 'teacher's manual' for the current documentation will not suffice; what's needed are teaching tools designed from scratch.
I really hope that the company can afford to risk trying to get ahead of the curve and move from reaction to proaction.
Peace,
John
John L. Tenny, Ph.D. Flowing Thought Educational Solutions eCOVE: The Observation Toolkit Software www.ecove.net [EMAIL PROTECTED] 1-888-363-2683 -----------------
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