Why do we need lifelong learning? What do we need to learn about? How do we learn about it?

Succeding in Lifelong Learning
https://www.facebook.com/BillyMadisonMovie?fref=ts

Why do we need lifelong learning? What do we need to learn about? How do we learn about it?

Because the SE Code of Ethics says so!

Principle 8: SELF
Software engineers shall participate in lifelong learning regarding the practice of their profession…

But why does the code say so?

• Benefit society, clients, and employers
• Make better software at lower cost
• Enhance reputation of profession
• Be trusted to do effective job
• Grow body of knowledge
• Solve hard problems
• Make all SEs better

Beyond the code’s reasons, what others?

• Be effective at your job
• Technology advances quickly
• Get raises, promotions
• Be able to get/keep jobs
• Tech industry has reputation for being ageist
• Would you hire someone with skills from 20 years ago?

Your professional success may depend on it!

Why do we need lifelong learning? What do we need to learn about? How do we learn about it?

Where can we find answers to this question?

Regarding tech certifications

“There are hundreds of tech certification programs and exams out there, some sponsored by software vendors, some by vendor-neutral organizations, and some by educational institutions. A number of them are easy to obtain -- as evidenced by the many IT pros who list a three-line string of acronyms after their names. You pay your money and you take a multiple-choice test; if you pass, you're in.
Others are excruciatingly difficult: Cost is high; eligibility to even take the exam is dependent on having years of experience, formal education, and/or sponsorship from others who already hold the title; and the exams are grueling, multi-day affairs that require hands-on performance of relevant tasks. Most are somewhere in between.
But which certifications really provide a measure of your knowledge and skills in a particular area? And which will really help you get a job or promotion?”
See the rest of this techrepublic article (2007) for an answer

Closing thoughts

• Lifelong learning is important!
• You can get it in a variety of ways
• Don’t limit yourself to just one!

http://flic.kr/p/aCLor3