Week 0: Learning to Learn

Week	Topic	Learning Objectives	Key Resources
0	Learning to Learn	Students will be able to interpret the core principles and values of Agile software development, analyze common pitfalls in software development processes, and apply techniques to cultivate an effective developer mindset and learning practices.	No slides this week.

Overview

This lesson is a big-picture overview of tools and strategies to be successful in Code the Dream's program. Here's a high-level breakdown of the skills and concepts we introduce to students:

• Getting Started: Software is powerful but also complex to build, requiring processes like Agile methodologies.
• What is Agile?: Agile focuses on frequent delivery of working software, adapting to changing requirements.
• 80/20 Principle: Focus on the vital 20% of features that 80% of users need.
• Pitfalls without Planning: Careful planning avoids issues like scope creep and changing requirements.
• Mental Mindset: Develop good learning strategies, habits, motivation and a growth mentality.
• Learning How to Learn: Figure out your optimal learning style and methodologies.
• Pomodoro: Use focused 25-minute intervals to improve productivity.
• Proper Habits: Build consistent coding habits.
• Motivation: Motivation follows action, fueled by small successes.
• Reset Your Limits: Push past self-imposed limits by expanding perspectives.
• Growth Mindset: Overcome analysis paralysis and the fear of failure.
• Take Actionable Steps: Take ownership, set goals, focus deeply.
• Learn in Public: Accelerate learning by sharing publicly.
• Imposter Syndrome: Overcome self-doubt through change in mindset and measuring progress.

Guidance for Mentors

You are welcome to host office hours this week, but most of you probably won't have mentor sessions. There are a few things you can do to use this time wisely.

• Overview the curriculum and mentor resources, especially the big-picture resources.
• Introduce yourself in the #classname-discussion channel so students get to know you.
• Reach out individually to your assigned students via a Slack DM. Let them know you are excited to work with them, and that you'll be around for assignment review and questions when they arise.

Assignment Rubric

No student assignment this week!