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Coding bootcamps have become increasingly popular over the past decade as a way for people to learn the skills they need to become software developers. But where did the idea for coding bootcamps come from, and why would a new coder want to attend one?

The history of coding bootcamps can be traced back to the early 2000s, when a number of online platforms began offering courses on programming languages like Java, Python, and Ruby. These courses were typically self-paced, and students could complete them at their own speed. However, many students found that they lacked the motivation and support they needed to complete the courses on their own.

In response to this problem, a number of organizations began offering in-person coding courses that were more intensive and structured than online courses. One of the earliest examples was General Assembly, which was founded in 2011 in New York City. General Assembly offered a 12-week course in web development that covered topics like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The course was designed to be immersive and intensive, with students attending classes for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week.

Other coding bootcamps soon followed, with organizations like Dev Bootcamp, Flatiron School, and Hack Reactor offering similar programs. These programs typically lasted anywhere from 8 to 24 weeks, and covered a range of topics like web development, mobile app development, and data science.

So why would a new coder want to attend a coding bootcamp? There are several reasons why coding bootcamps have become a popular way for people to learn programming skills.

First, coding bootcamps are designed to be immersive and intensive. This means that students can learn a lot in a short amount of time. For people who are looking to switch careers or start a new one, this can be a big advantage. Instead of spending years studying programming on their own, students can attend a coding bootcamp and gain the skills they need to start a new career in just a few months.

Second, coding bootcamps offer a structured and supportive learning environment. Many coding bootcamps have experienced instructors who can provide guidance and feedback to students. In addition, coding bootcamps often have a cohort model, where students work together in small groups to complete projects and assignments. This can be a great way for students to build a network of peers and mentors who can support them throughout their career.

Third, coding bootcamps often have strong relationships with employers in the tech industry. Many coding bootcamps have partnerships with tech companies, and some even offer job placement services to their graduates. This can be a big advantage for students who are looking to break into the tech industry but don’t have any experience or connections.

Fourth, coding bootcamps are often more affordable than traditional degree programs. While the cost of attending a coding bootcamp can still be significant, it is often much less than the cost of a four-year college degree. In addition, many coding bootcamps offer financing options or scholarships to help make the programs more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

Of course, there are also some potential downsides to attending a coding bootcamp. One of the biggest challenges is that coding bootcamps can be very intensive and require a lot of time and effort. Students who are not prepared for this level of intensity may struggle to keep up with the coursework and may not get as much out of the program as they would like.

In addition, some employers in the tech industry may be skeptical of the value of coding bootcamps. While many tech companies do hire graduates of coding bootcamps, some employers may prefer candidates with traditional computer science degrees or more extensive work experience

Here Are Ten Things You Might Typically Learn At A Coding Bootcamp:

1. Programming Fundamentals: A coding bootcamp will teach you the basics of programming, such as variables, loops, conditionals, and functions. These fundamentals are the building blocks of coding and will help you understand more complex concepts.
2. Web Development: Many coding bootcamps focus on web development, which involves building websites and web applications using languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You will learn how to create user interfaces, work with databases, and implement functionality using web frameworks like React or Angular.
3. Mobile App Development: Some coding bootcamps may also offer courses on mobile app development. This involves creating apps for iOS or Android using languages like Swift, Java, or Kotlin.
4. Full-Stack Development: Full-stack development involves working on both the front-end and back-end of web applications. You will learn how to build user interfaces using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and how to work with databases and server-side languages like Node.js or Ruby on Rails.
5. Version Control: Git is a tool used by developers to manage code changes, collaborate with others, and keep track of different versions of their code. You will learn how to use Git and GitHub, a popular platform for hosting and sharing code.
6. Agile Development: Agile is a development methodology that emphasizes collaboration, flexibility, and continuous delivery. You will learn how to work in agile teams, use tools like Jira or Trello, and participate in daily stand-up meetings and sprint retrospectives.
7. Problem-Solving: As a developer, you will encounter many problems and bugs that you will need to solve. Coding bootcamps teach you how to break down problems into smaller parts, use debugging tools, and research solutions online.
8. Soft Skills: Many coding bootcamps also focus on soft skills like communication, teamwork, and time management. You will learn how to give and receive feedback, work with others in a professional environment, and manage your time effectively.
9. Job Search Strategies: Coding bootcamps often provide career services to help you find a job after graduation. This includes resume and portfolio review, interview preparation, and networking opportunities.
10. Continuing Education: Learning to code is a lifelong journey, and coding bootcamps teach you how to continue learning after you graduate. You will learn how to use online resources like Stack Overflow and Codecademy, attend meetups and conferences, and build side projects to continue improving your skills.

In summary, a coding bootcamp can teach you a wide range of skills, from programming fundamentals to job search strategies. Whether you want to become a web developer, mobile app developer, or full-stack developer, a coding bootcamp can provide you with the knowledge and experience you need to succeed.