[Editor's Note: I recently learned of two more free resources to learn programming (Python and Java) and have updated the list below with links to the tutorials.]There are several kinds of web developers:Front-end - people who develop the parts of a website with which the user interacts Back-end - people who develop the parts running a site behind the scenes Full-stack - people who can develop on both the front and back ends of a websiteI've been building websites for around 18 years … [Read more...] about Free Resources to Learn Web Development Programming Languages
training
A First-Timer’s Guide to Enjoying the Nonprofit Technology Conference
The Nonprofit Technology Network puts on an amazing annual conference called the Nonprofit Technology Conference, or NTC for short. Generally held in spring, the conference is held in various cities throughout the United States, typically alternating between east coast, west coast, and the heartland so everyone has a chance at attending at some point with easier travel.Thinking back to my first time at the NTC, I remember being in a state of ecstasy and overwhelm for much of the event. So many … [Read more...] about A First-Timer’s Guide to Enjoying the Nonprofit Technology Conference
The Backstory Behind the “Top 10 Reasons to Attend the TechNow 2017” List
Years ago, I can't recall exactly when, I started doing an annual list for the nonprofit technology conference I manage, TechNow. I also cannot recall why I started doing it, though I'm pretty certain I got the idea from watching David Letterman doing his top 10 list features for so many years. Anyway, each year it's a challenge to write new and interesting reasons for attending, but I have an awful lot of fun finding the animated gifs to go with the post!View this year's Top 10 Reasons to … [Read more...] about The Backstory Behind the “Top 10 Reasons to Attend the TechNow 2017” List
Struggling to Learn New Technology? Adopt a Growth Mindset.
I've been doing a lot of training lately, most recently a class at the Bayer Center last week called DIY Websites with WordPress. Upon reflection, I realize that I'm hearing a good deal of self-criticism, particularly in hands-on technology trainings. For example:"I have a stupid question." "I'll never remember how to do this." "I'm so dumb when it comes to technology." "I totally screwed this up."This makes me very sad. The people who come to my workshops are highly intelligent … [Read more...] about Struggling to Learn New Technology? Adopt a Growth Mindset.
An introvert’s advice on overcoming your fear of public speaking
Our Number One Fear Public speaking is, according to West Coast Toastmasters, the number one fear Americans have. Our fear of public speaking is apparently even greater than our fear of death!I do a lot of public speaking as part of my job. I teach maybe a dozen non-credit workshops at the Bayer Center each year, give breakout sessions at conferences, participate in panel discussions and facilitate meetings regularly. You probably think I'm some kind of extrovert that enjoys being in the … [Read more...] about An introvert’s advice on overcoming your fear of public speaking