| | Anonymous | I started 311 after attending another part-time "boot camp" in town. I was weary about attending another school that would teach me the same things so I jumped into 311. What a mistake! I was not prepared and we covered my 8 week boot camp in the first 2 weeks. Fortunately ACA allowed me to move to 211 which was more appropriate for my skill level.
211 is loaded with small and doable projects. While we covered the expected JavaScript concepts we actually learned deeper trade skills like node, npm, git & app testing. With so many "online" options it's easy to plop down $25/mo on a subscription and watch videos. However, without peer review, instructor feedback, knowledge transfer of industry best practices and deadlines the online route may prove difficult; it was difficult for me.
As for ACA & 211 be prepared to work. The class is "part-time" but the workload is real. You get what you put into the course. If you only do 1/2 the work that's what you will learn, incomplete skills. However, if you put in the time and effort you are equally met by the instructors and TA who are great! The TAs who are selected from prior student classes, they know what it's like to be in your shoes and know the pitfalls of the course/projects. With there assistance the learning curve is shortened.
I don't have many Cons other than expectations. The class times are very convenient and this is "part-time". However, you must plan for plenty of time to work on your projects which I don't think was very clear when I started. If the class is "easy", push yourself. If the class is "hard", it's supposed to be and trust the process. If it's impossible talk to you TA and Instructor!!! Everyone wants you to succeed, it's not a facade. If you just want to watch videos go the online route. However, if you really want to know what it's like to be employed as a JavaScript developer ACA can prepare you. |
| | Anonymous | If you want to know what it's like to be a developer this environment can prepare you. If you just want "new skills" you may not be satisfied with this format.
Personally, I wanted some new skills but wanted an environment to gain the "full stack" experience. Admittedly and in full disclosure I took this class twice. The second time was so rewarding to finally "get it". Note: It is not necessary to take this class twice and that is where I will focus my review.
This is a "part-time" class but you must expect to put in a lot of work to be successful. I did not prepare myself skill wise nor time wise to be successful the first time. If you know up front that you have to really put in time, effort and that this is not a "completion" type of class you will be very successful.
To better prepare for my second attempt, I attended several JavaScript workshops to brush up on my fundamentals. It's so important to understand JavaScript fundamental concepts especially Objects; how to access and loop them. While you will be taught these concepts knowledge of them is a huge advantage. If you take 211 before 311 you should be ok. Otherwise, just make sure you are solid on JS fundamentals and Objects. Not taking 211 makes 311 more difficult but not impossible. If you are wanting to become a full stack developer take all 3 classes and trust the process.
The prices is super affordable by comparison to others camps. The job assistance is outstanding. The TAs & Instructors are genuine, knowledgeable and there to help you be successful. |
