#Assembly Program Online Help

[ikiprian]

Barbara Gordon's Coding & Computer Cram School is a popular YouTube series. Tucker Foley is a star student.

Barbara Gordon's Cram School posts free online courses for both coding and computer engineering. Think Crash Course in terms of entertainment, but college lecture in terms of depth. Hundreds of thousands of viewers flock to it— students who missed a class, people looking to add new skills to a resume, even simple hobbyists. It’s a project Barbara’s proud of.

Sometimes, when she wants to relax, she’ll even hop in the comments and spend an afternoon troubleshooting a viewer’s project with them.

User “Fryer-Tuck” has especially interesting ones. Barbara finds herself seeking out his comments, checking in on whatever this crazy kid is making next. An app for collecting GPS pings and assembling them on a map in real-time, an algorithm that connects geographic points to predict something’s movement taking a hundred other variables into account, simplified versions of incredibly complex homemade programs so they can run on incredibly limited CPU’s.

(Barbara wants to buy the kid a PC. It seems he’s got natural talent, but he keeps making reference to a PDA. Talk about 90’s! This guy’s hardware probably predates his birth.)

She chats with him more and more, switching to less public PM threads, and eventually, he opens up. His latest project, though, is not something Barbara has personal experience with.

FT: so if you found, hypothetically, a mysterious glowing substance that affects tech in weird and wacky ways that could totally have potential but might be vaguely sentient/otherworldly…. what would you do and how would you experiment with it. safely, of course. and hypothetically

BG: I’d make sure all my tests were in disposable devices and quarantined programs to keep it from infecting my important stuff. Dare I ask… how weird and wacky is it?

FT: uhhh. theoretically, a person composed of this substance once used it to enter a video game. like physical body, into the computer, onto the screen? moving around and talking and fighting enemies within the game?

FT: its been experimented with before, but not on any tech with a brain. just basic shields and blasters and stuff, its an energy source. also was put in a car once

FT: i wanna see how it affects software, yk? bc i already know it can. mess around and see how far i can push it

BG: […]

FT: … barbara?

BG: Sorry, thinking. Would you mind sharing more details? You said “blasters?”

Honestly. Kid genius with access to some truly wacky materials and even wackier weapons, she needs to start a file on him before he full sends to either hero or villain.

[OR: Tucker is a self-taught hacker, but if he were to credit a teacher, he'd name Barbara Gordon's Coding & Computer Cram School! He's even caught the attention of Dr. Gordon herself. She's full of sage advice, and with how she preaches the value of a good VPN, he's sure she's not pro-government. Maybe she'll help him as he studies the many applications of ecto-tech!]

[penultimate-step]

I have a mild interest in video game history stuff, so I was reading through the "50 Years of Text Games" page recently. I got to the article on The Hobbit (1982), which I had only heard about in passing before this, but this seems to have been an oversight given its apparent importance. Looking through this and some other articles, the game was well known for having npc behavior years ahead of its time, and was inspirational to early games programmers; this page even going so far as to say it "is often credited for helping to jump-start the British home computing market." But beyond the game's technical achievements, one paragraph at the article's end about the game's creator, Veronika Megler, stuck with me:

Megler for years was little aware of the game’s success. After graduating, Melbourne House offered her a full-time position, but she was sick of assembler debugging and turned it down: “I have a very low tolerance for doing the same thing over and over again.” She accepted an entry-level job at IBM, who “made it very clear that having written a game was not regarded as any kind of relevant work experience,” and would go on to a long and successful career as a computer professional—but never again worked in games. It wasn’t until the 2000s that she learned the extent of The Hobbit’s popularity, and its impact on a generation of players around the world: players who had first learned English to solve it, or had their imaginations fired for their own computer careers by the magic inherent in the game’s simulated possibilities.

(50 Years of Text Games)

And that got me thinking about legacy and how we perceive ourselves for a bit. Because to Megler none of this stuff is that important, apparently. For her this was just a college programming job, what others saw as groundbreaking NPC design she saw as ordinary, a stepping stone in her career; not part of her real life, which involved IT work. And today she is a leading data scientist at Amazon. But if you look her up online, check her wikipedia page, all of that stuff is a footnote. The last 40 years of her life, the stuff she valued, it's all placed under several paragraphs talking about her involvement in games, stuff she did for less than a year. 100 years from now, assuming people are still playing video games, people will probably be talking about The Hobbit, long after all the other stuff fades into history.

Really makes you realize that we have very little control over how we will be remembered, what about our lives others consider important and worth remembering.

[vintage-tech]

useful information: How to get a USB Blu-Ray player to work on your computer

Not a post about vintage technology, just an explanation of what you think might be simple to do but isn't: There are Blu-Ray players that plug into your computer by USB, and you discover that just plugging it in doesn't make it work* in the same manner that CD-RWs or DVD-RWs are automatically recognised and function. You will see "BR Drive" in My Computer and the name of whatever movie you have inserted, but that's as far as you're able to go.

*There is software you can buy to make a Blu-Ray (internal or external) function, sure, and if an internal came with your computer it's likely already installed -- but if you're like me you don't have that software, you're cheap and won't pay for software, and you want to use what you have installed already or find free solutions.

Looking in the Blu-Ray drive's package, there's not a lot of info about what you're supposed to do. The above no-name Blu-Ray player cost $40 from a popular website; name-brand ones can set you back $120 or so. Looking around online for those instructions, I never saw the whole set of directions in one place, I had to cobble them together from 2 or 3 sites. And so here I share that list. To keep out of trouble, I'm not linking any files -- Google will help you.

Get VLC, the free video player available for pretty much any operating system. Thing is, it doesn't come with the internals to make it work with Blu-Ray even if when you go to the Play Media menu there is a radio button for selecting Blu-Ray.

Get MakeMKV, a decoder for reading Blu-Ray disks. This had been totally free during the beta testing period but it's come out and has a month or two trial period you can work in.

Get Java if you don't already have it. Reason for this is, the menu systems on Blu-Ray disks uses this... technically it's not required, however it does mean you don't have options such as special features, language and sound changes, or scene selection if you don't have Java installed; insert a disk, it can only play the movie.

Get the file libaacs.dll online so you have AACS decoding. I am told it hasn't been updated in awhile so there may be disks produced after 2013 that won't work right, but you won't know until you try.

There's a set of keys you will also want to have so that the player knows how to work with specific disks, and so do a search online for the "FindVUK Online Database". There will be a regularly-updated keydb.cfg archive file on that page to pick up.

Got those three programs installed and the other two files obtained? Okay, here are your instructions for assembly...

In VLC: go to Tools, Prefs, click "show all"… under the Input/Codecs heading is Access Modules then Blu-Ray: Select your region, A through C. You can change this if you need to for foreign disks. Next related action: go to My Computer and C:, click into Program Files and VLC, and this is where you copy the libaacs.dll file to.

In MakeMKV: click View, then Preferences, and under Integration - add VLC.

Confirm that Java is set up to work with VLC by going to the computer's Control Panel, going to System Properties, and into Environment Variables. Click System Variables, and click New to create this key if it doesn't already exist: … Name: Java … Value: [the location of the Java 'jre#.##' folder... use Browse to find it in C:\Program Files\Java]

Let's go back into My Computer and C:, this time go to Program Data, and then do a right-click in the window and select New and Folder. Rename this folder "aacs" (without the quotes), and then you click into it and copy the keydb.cfg file here.

REBOOT.

And now you should be able to recognise Blu-Ray disks in your player and play them. Three troubleshooting notes to offer in VLC:

"Disk corrupt" -- this means MakeMKV has not decoded and parsed the disk yet, or that you don't have the libaacs.dll in place so that it can decode the disk. ...After checking the VLC folder for the DLL to make sure, launch MakeMKV, then go to File, Play Disk, and select the Blu-Ray drive. Now it will grind a bit and figure out the disk's contents.

A note appears when a movie starts saying there will be no menus, but the movie plays fine -- Java isn't running. ...Invoke Java by going to the Java Settings in Start: Programs. You don't have to change anything here, so Exit, then eject the disk and put it back in to see if the movie's menu now appears.

Buffering between chapters, making the movie pause for a few seconds? There is a setting for this but I need to find that info page again for where that is. (If you find it, tell me where it is!)

I don't claim to know a lot but if you have any questions I might have some answers or suggestions. So far I've watched "Office Space" and Disney's "Coco" without any issues beside occasional buffering.

[aureliaeiter]

Nemoralia and the birthday of Goddess Diana

As I wasn't able to celebrate Nemoralia two days ago, I thought I'd make a post about it today. Nemoralia was a festival in honour of Goddess Diana. This festival was originally held at Diana's temple in Aricia, current day Nemi (50 minutes away from Rome by car).

May this informational post honor the goddess and help those that want to celebrate this festival.

August 13 - Diana's Dies Natalis

This was thought to be Diana's dies natalis (birthday) by members of the collegium of Diana and Antinous in Lanuvium.

Everyone took part in this festival though the main focus were women. As told by Plutarch, on this day, for reasons unknown nowadays, they washed their hair in a special ritual.

Enslaved people got this day off as they were under the protection of the goddess (worth to keep in mind that Diana's priest at Lake Nemi was always a runaway enslaved man). Male citizens and masters were able to participate in this festival but they were required to be on equal terms with women and enslaved people.

As this is one of the hottest days of the year, the celebrations started at night. Worshipers adorned not only their heads with flowers crowns, but also the heads of their dogs as they also took part in the celebration. Hunting or killing animals in any way was forbidden on this day. Horses were forbidden from entering this area.

At night, worshipers assembled at the Sanctuary and walked in a procession around Lake Nemi while holding candles or torches, similar to the ones Vestal Virgins carried. People wrote petitions on ribbons and tied them on tree branches and they also left votive offerings at the temple, especially related to part of the body in need of healing.

How to celebrate in current day

Make an offering to Diana. Some ideas are baking moon-shaped cakes, pouring wine, cutting a flock of your hair for her or lighting a special candle. You could also read a hymn in her honour.

Wash your hair or go to the hair salon to get a trim. Adorn it with flower crowns.

If you have a dog, pamper them!! Wash them, take them on a longer walk than usual, buy then special treats... The possibilities are endless.

Write your petitions in a ribbon and tie it in a tree branch. If you don't have any trees near you could also tie it to any plants you're growing at home or bury it in the ground.

Donate to good causes, foundations or shelters related to women, animals or those in need. The world really needs that right now.

If you are near Nemi, go to the ruins of the goddess' temple. People still give her flowers til this day. Also the council of Nemi celebrates Nemoralia since 2016, though I think this year was discontinued since I wasn't able to find any information about it.

The program is formed by different types of activities, from history or art lectures to guided tours or nature walks.

What's the actual date of Nemoralia?

There's a lot of confusion online about what the actual date of Nemoralia is, with some people saying it's only celebrated on the 13th, others saying it's on the 15th and others saying is a three day festival.

It's believed that at first it was celebrated on the full moon but during the Roman Republic it was set on August 13, as back then that's when the full moon happened. This has led modern scholars like Frazer to think that the festival may extended over a few days instead of just one.

So, when to celebrate? If you want to follow the Roman calendar, it should be on August 13. However, if you want to celebrate on a full moon like ancient worshipers would have, then it depends on the year (in 2024 it would be on August 19).

Additionally, since it's believed Nemoralia became the Assumption of Mary through syncretism with Catholicism, you may want to choose August 15 to celebrate, because if you live in a Catholic country or canton you'll most likely get a day off from work - which means more time to celebrate!

May Dea Diana bless you all!

[commodorez]

How would one go about learning how to make something like the cactus?

Like prerequisites, older code, hardware stuff, etc.

The main prerequisites I can think of are being heavily interested in vintage computers, and having the drive to try and fail and then try again.

I started with building Grant Searle's design, borrowing from other working designs as I went. However, for the front panel? That's alot of time designing, learning, simulating in Logisim, and testing with physical logic gates to produce something 100% original and of my own design. I imagine most folks won't want to go to the trouble of designing an entire front panel state machine like I did.

The good news is that there are way more kits that can help teach the necessary skills than ever before! Most notably, Ben Eater's 6502 kit is a really great way to learn many of the things that I've put into practice here. He has a whole youtube video series associated with it, walking through concepts, construction, programming, etc. step by step. Even if you don't build one of his kits, watching them is an informative process. *I* learned alot, even after having built the Cactus.

If you're going the Z80 direction, the RC2014 series of kits can teach you plenty. There's also glitchworks kits in a few processor types, but those tend to be a bit more for the advanced user. There's the 1802 Membership Card but that's small and not really expandable. I could be here all day listing kits that can help teach and build up experience.

I should mention that I have a computer science degree in my back pocket, but learning logic gates or using assembly was only lightly touched on in the course of my studies. Most of the programming I do involved messing around in BASIC anyway.

I really didn't have a game plan for some of it, so alot of my learning process was trial and error. Alot of errors, in fact. Still making them, and learning from them. I also took the harder route to construction, since I didn't know how to use EDA tools for designing PCBs like KiCAD or Altium or Eagle (don't use Fritzing for the love of fuck).

Oh, one other thing I can recommend: reading through contemporary 1970s computing magazines like Byte (check the internet archive for back issues). There are all sorts of cool projects and ideas present that can really guide you. It doesn't hurt to have a copy of Don Lancaster's TTL Cookbook on hand (I think it's in PDF form online).

Finding a community to help you out is also a great idea. Even back in the 1970s, many folks who jump-started the home computer revolution had the Homebrew Computer Club to help them out. Community meetings to bounce ideas off of, and help one another through debugging are essential in my book -- you don't have to work in a vacuum. I've got a few places I've asked for help, most notably the Retrotech Crew discord server. I've had the benefit of friends who also have homebrewed designs like @techav, who have inspired me with their ideas, but helped me out with mine. In turn, as I've learned, I've been able to help out others.

Hopefully that answers your question. Keep 'em coming!

[oceansubconscious]

hello there! i hope things are going well. thank you again, from a reader, for all your poems (and especially the DMC ones. they are so intense and compelling)

(that latest one made me tear up again)

a question: what program do you use to assemble your poems into pictures (god, i hope this makes sense)? as in, photoshop, or...?

i'd like to post some of my own writing, and would love advice from someone who makes such aesthetically put-together works.

Asfgshsjk thank you anon for reading and your support! I'm super happy you like my works :')

I use Canva! It's a free app on mobile and has a web version. It's really great once you get a hang of where everything is. I use the Card template for the short pieces, Poster for the longer ones, and make a custom 1090 x 1500 px template for the medium length ones.

Canva has a lot of pretty fonts and images for free. You can even use the premium images—they come with a watermark on the free version, but if you make the image transparent enough, the watermark is barely perceptible.

Simple fonts like Times New Roman are my go-to for easy reading. Adding a text box is better imo than using the 'body text' function because a text box allows you to pick and choose which word you want to adjust (like italicise, or change its color, etc). A body text adjusts the whole thing and doesn't let you choose a specific word.

I like to search online for the stock images or official art and screenshots from the game itself, and use the photo editor in my gallery to cut the images into the shape I want. I think you can find apps that do the same thing if your gallery doesn't have a photo editor that does that. Then I upload that image to Canva and play around with the filters and layers.

There are a lot of great rentry/graphic blogs that make amazing stuff! I love using their pngs. Check them out ♥︎♥︎♥︎ @bydollita @thybakery @honeyluvsw @rosjarios @suturical @ambersalbums ♥︎♥︎♥︎

If you ever want further tips I'd be happy to help! I've been using canva for like 6 years and learned things I wish I knew when I first started

[wpaffiliatepressplugin]

7 Things to Know Before Creating an Affiliate Program

Building an affiliate program can be a major game-changer for your online business. It’s like assembling a dream team of marketers who work around the clock to push your product while you sit back, sip coffee, and watch the sales roll in. Sounds pretty great, right?

But before you jump into affiliate marketing, there are a few things you absolutely need to know. Creating a successful affiliate program doesn’t just happen overnight; there’s a lot to consider if you want to get it right from the start.

In this post, we’ll walk through some of the essential things to consider before launching your affiliate program. And, just to help you out, we’ll also point out why having the right affiliate software, makes everything run a lot smoother. So, let’s dive into what you need to know before going full throttle with your affiliate program.

What You Must Know Before Starting an Affiliate Program

1. You Need Clear Goals and Expectations

Before launching your affiliate program, the first step is defining what you want to achieve. Do you want to boost traffic to your website? Increase sales? Build brand awareness? Without clear goals in place, you won’t know if your affiliate program is truly successful.

Your affiliate program should have measurable objectives, whether it’s hitting a specific revenue target or gaining a set number of affiliates. Make sure your expectations align with your goals. If you're expecting to make millions in the first month, that might not be realistic. Start with small, attainable goals and scale from there.

Why it matters: Having a clear vision of what success looks like helps you focus on the right strategies and tools.

2. Choose the Right Commission Structure

One of the most important decisions when setting up your affiliate program is how you'll structure commissions. This can make or break your program. There are several ways to approach affiliate commissions:

Percentage of Sale: Affiliates earn a percentage of each sale they refer.

Flat Rate: Affiliates earn a fixed amount per sale.

Pay-Per-Click (PPC): Affiliates earn money every time someone clicks on their referral link (regardless of whether they make a purchase).

The right commission structure depends on your product, your margins, and the types of affiliates you’re targeting. For example, if you’re selling a high-ticket item, you might want to offer a larger percentage. If you sell low-cost products, a flat rate might work better.

Why it matters: Setting up a flexible commission structure is one of the key elements in keeping affiliates motivated and incentivized to promote your products. WordPress affiliate plugin like AffiliatePress allow you to easily customize and manage commission structures, which means you can experiment and find what works best for your business.

3. Make Sure You’re Using the Right Affiliate Platform

Affiliate marketing can be tough to manage manually, especially when you have multiple affiliates, lots of sales to track, and payments to process. This is where using the right affiliate platform comes into play.

An affiliate program requires proper management, and without the right tools, you could easily lose track of commissions, miss out on potential sales, or end up with a confusing system that frustrates affiliates.

Why it matters: Using the right affiliate software ensures smooth operations, which will save you time, reduce errors, and allow your affiliates to focus on driving sales. Plus, automated reporting lets you monitor how your program is performing without having to manually dig through data.

4. Attracting the Right Affiliates Is Key

Okay, so you’ve set your goals and decided on a commission structure. Now it’s time to find affiliates who are a good fit for your brand. Not just anyone will be able to promote your products effectively. You need to find affiliates whose audience aligns with your product and who genuinely care about your brand.

You can either go the organic route (through content creators or influencers) or find affiliate networks where affiliates sign up to promote a range of products. Make sure the affiliates you’re choosing have a genuine following, preferably in your niche, and know how to engage their audience.

Why it matters: Attracting the right affiliates ensures your program will be successful. If you pick affiliates who resonate with your audience, they’ll produce higher-quality content and generate better results.

5. Create Great Affiliate Resources

Affiliates are marketers, but they need help in the form of resources to market your product effectively. Your program’s success is directly tied to how much support you give your affiliates. You should provide them with things like:

Banners: Easy-to-use graphics for their sites.

Landing Pages: Pre-made pages to help convert visitors into customers.

Email Templates: Ready-to-send emails that they can use for outreach.

Product Info: Detailed descriptions and features to help affiliates pitch your product accurately.

A good affiliate program should arm its partners with all the materials they need to succeed. The more you equip your affiliates with marketing tools, the more likely they are to push traffic your way.

Why it matters: Providing your affiliates with high-quality marketing resources increases their chances of making a sale. This saves them time and gives them the tools they need to effectively convert leads.

6. Set Up a Clear Payment System

If there’s one thing that will keep your affiliates happy, it’s getting paid on time. Make sure you have a clear, reliable system in place for paying your affiliates. You need to decide how and when affiliates will get paid:

Payment Methods: Will you pay via PayPal, bank transfer, or checks?

Payment Frequency: Will you pay weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly?

Minimum Payout Threshold: How much do affiliates need to earn before they can cash out?

Why it matters: Clear and timely payments build trust with your affiliates. A smooth payment process is one of the main reasons why affiliates stay loyal to your program. The better the experience, the more likely they are to keep promoting and driving sales.

7. Track Your Performance (Don’t Guess)

Tracking performance is a non-negotiable part of running an affiliate program. You need to know which affiliates are performing well, which products are generating the most sales, and how much money your program is making. Without this information, you’ll be flying blind, and it’ll be difficult to optimize your affiliate strategy.

Why it matters: Tracking performance allows you to identify your top affiliates, products, and strategies, helping you optimize for higher earnings. If something’s working, double down on it; if something’s not, change it. Without data, you can’t make informed decisions, and your program won’t grow.

Final Thoughts: Prepare for the Affiliate Journey

Setting up an affiliate program is a major move toward increasing sales and driving passive income, but it requires careful planning. From choosing the right commission structure to picking the best affiliates and providing great marketing resources, each step plays a crucial role in your program's success.

And don’t forget, the right affiliate platform makes managing your program so much easier. Plus, it makes scaling your program a easy.

Remember: an affiliate program isn’t just a side hustle; it’s a business tool. With the right strategies and support, it can become a major revenue stream for your business. So take the time to set it up right, and let your affiliates do the heavy lifting for you.

[softlyfiercely]

Fellow activist folks: Does anyone here have any activities you have done with kids and young people on immigration, migrant justice, refugee issues, etc. - or honestly any sort of social justice issues (LGBTQ+ issues, Gaza, racial equality, etc.) that have actually felt…meaningful? Or something that kids could do to actually provide meaningful support for an organization or work you're familiar with?

I have been asked to develop an intergenerational program for Migration with Dignity Sunday at my church, but all the materials I am finding just focus on education - explaining to kids what a refugee is, what issues immigrants face, etc. Our kids are actually pretty socially aware, and they feel so frustrated and overwhelmed and just want to take action and DO something.

I found some materials that suggested making a "welcome quilt" to give to a family that has just arrived in the US, but then I could not find a single organization that takes and distributes anything of the sort. Also looked for whether anyone was collecting cards of welcome, but no dice.

I understand that there are other much more pressing needs than giving crayon drawings to people. But these are elementary school kids who cannot exactly raise money, provide pro bono legal services, translate into other languages, etc. They want so badly to DO something to help, and they get really sad and discouraged when we do programming about "awareness" or "advocacy" and get them fired up about an issue without any action to take.

The only thing I can think of is having them write letters to elected officials, but I don't know really who it would be most effective to send these letters to. A lot of places online suggest having kids make posters expressing welcome and support, but where would I put them up? At a point it feels like preaching to the choir.

Thoughts? Ideas? Please send help. (And yes, I have reached out to all local immigration related charities and orgs in my area to ask too.)

Previous things we've done that have worked well included: assembling bagged lunches for a homeless shelter, making cards for people in jail, and painting/construction work in low-income areas. Just don't know how to do this for Migration with Dignity Sunday.

[thethinkingaurora]

Yo. How do you code? (I only know the basics to HTML and CSS :/)

Idk which specific question you’re asking, like like how do I code as in what tools do I use, or what do I do and what is my process, or how did I learn to code, or can you teach me to code

And because I don’t know I’ll answer all of them :3

1. What tools do I use?

I use a few things to code, VS Code for actually writing the code, GitHub for storing projects and collaboration, Google and StackOverflow and depending on the project various other apps

2. How do I do it and my workflow process

Uh I have like no idea, I kinda just learn how certain things work via Google and then I slot them together, But the workflow process, I know exactly how to do that, ok so get a white board or a notepad or something, write what you want your program to do, and then break it down into steps and then break it down again and again, so for example,

For my current project, (The Incorrect Quote Generator), I need to take inputs, from a list of quotes choose one that fits the parameters, replace names in the quote with the inputted ones and then print the whole thing

Breaking down the first bit I need the inputs, what inputs do I need? I need the amount of characters and the names of the characters, ok done, second bit, take the quotes, sort them based off of character amount, using the amount of characters from the previous step, pick a set of quotes that match, replace the names, last bit, take the quote with it replaced and done

Breaking down again, first bit, done already, second bit, do we want something like autocapitalisation to make it nicer , yeah sure, what about capitalising the entire name if it fits the circumstance, makes it smoother, done, last bit done

Ok what about formatting, do we want all of this on one line or do we want separate lines for each person speaking, yeah we want separate lines, ok use an “&” symbol to represent a space and when the piece of code that assembles the end string encounters it, print the string and reset continuing from where we are to make a new line

That’s the design process for that

But first you make a prototype of it, to see if it works, like I didn’t have the autocaps or anything at first, I only added that when one of the submissions needed it

Anyways-

3. How did I learn to code

Through a number of ways, first I had gone to this computer club thing when I was like 8 or something and I found Scratch and learned about that, then when I was about 10 I was curious about html and websites, so I ended up making websites for classmates, then lockdown hit and I had nothing to do, I wanted to make a game, so what did I do? I jumped headfirst into Unity and struggled to get absolutely anything done (DON’T DO THIS), at some point I ended up joining this thing called Coderdojo which is like a coding class which worked really well (I actually still go there every Saturday although I’m at more advanced stuff now) and I learned about python and then kept learning more, then I made my own projects and learned more on my own from that

If you are looking to learn on your own, I’d recommend W3Schools, they have tons of courses, are entirely free and very in depth

But first I’d recommend you check out Scratch, it’s great for learning how to think in computer terms

4. Can I teach you to code

I know this probably wasn’t what you were asking but I’ll answer it anyway

Sure, I’d love to, coding one of the things I enjoy a lot because it combines logic and making things, and I love helping and teaching people things so teaching someone else to code sounds good to me :3

Stuff mentioned here

[sasquapossum]

There's something very weird about watching my daughter embark into adulthood. When she was a kid ... well, she was a kid. A different category from me. Now she's supposedly the same category. A peer. "Adult" supposedly applies to both of us. I mean, we're both well aware of the differences in experience and comfort levels in doing various (mostly boring) "adult" things, but our lives are more comparable than they were before.

I like to play this little game where I try to remember where I was when I was my daughter's current age. Right now that puts us somewhere around the end of 1984. I was not quite 20, living in Ann Arbor and working for the University of Michigan libraries, between the first and second times I dropped out. I was also learning about computers. I was making pretty graphs at work using a Lotus 1-2-3 competitor called Enable. I was helping people in the computing center recover damaged MacWrite files, because nobody working at the CC (as I later did) knew anything about those then-new Macintosh things. I was teaching myself programming on those same Macs, starting with assembly language because I couldn't afford a compiler. Might have created one of the world's first viruses, spread via floppy disks. Definitely did hack into the university's mainframe, which got my friend in trouble but I had luckily stepped out to get a soda at that exact moment. And I was getting my first experiences with online interaction, because as it turns out I was in one of the very best places for that.

I was also reading lots of fantasy and science fiction. I was between periods of playing D&D. I hadn't been on a real date yet. I supposedly knew how to drive, but the only time I did was to borrow my mother's car and visit her in the hospital 20-25 miles west, and I think that particular Christmas is one of the ones when she was there. I had just recently voted against Reagan for a second term. I also think this was just after I almost joined the Marines as an alternative to becoming homeless. I was still a few years from discovering and joining the local gay community. Neurodiversity was simply not on anyone's radar.

By contrast, daughter is now further along in her college studies than I ever got. I find it amusing that, after her first year at a school very similar to the one her mother attended, she's now at one very like the one I myself attended. She proudly identifies as genderfluid, bisexual, and AuDHD. Another contrast is that she not only has a boyfriend but they've been together for more than three years (since high school). She's very online and she's an avid gamer, but otherwise has no great interest in computers. Also, apparently like many in her generation, she hasn't even bothered to get a driver's license. No parents in the hospital either.

Yeah, a bit different. She's a very different person, of course, and her circumstances are also very different (sometimes even in ways I can take credit for). One of the things I like about these comparisons is being able to feel proud that yes, my child is far better off than I was. And isn't that what it's all about?

[roseliejack123]

Java Learning Roadmap: From Basics to Mastery

Embarking on a Java learning journey from the comfort of your home offers unparalleled flexibility and convenience. Whether your aspirations lie in web development, Android app creation, or backend coding, Java serves as a robust foundation.

This comprehensive guide outlines a step-by-step approach to help beginners effectively grasp Java concepts and skills from the comfort of their own space.

1. Establish Clear Learning Objectives: Prior to diving into Java learning, take a moment to define your goals. Determine what you aim to achieve with your Java proficiency, whether it's gaining foundational knowledge, tackling projects, or pursuing a career in software development.

2. Select High-Quality Learning Resources: Choose your learning materials wisely. Opt for reputable online platforms such as Udemy, Coursera, or Codecademy that offer well-structured Java courses tailored to beginners. Supplement your learning with books, video tutorials, and interactive exercises to enhance comprehension.

3. Start with Fundamental Concepts: Begin your Java journey by focusing on fundamental principles. Familiarize yourself with core concepts like variables, data types, loops, conditionals, and object-oriented programming basics. Online tutorials and interactive exercises serve as invaluable resources for grasping these foundational elements.

4. Cultivate Regular Practice Habits: Consistent practice is key to mastering Java. Allocate dedicated time each day to code, solve programming challenges, and engage in project work. Platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, and CodeSignal provide a plethora of coding challenges to hone your skills and build confidence.

5. Engage in Project Development: Apply your newfound knowledge by embarking on real-world projects. Start with simple tasks, such as creating a calculator, a to-do list app, or a basic game. As you grow more confident, tackle more complex projects that align with your learning objectives and interests.

6. Connect with the Java Community: Join online forums, discussion groups, and social media communities to interact with fellow Java enthusiasts and experts. Platforms like Stack Overflow, Reddit, and GitHub offer invaluable opportunities to seek advice, share knowledge, and gain insights from experienced developers.

7. Embrace Constructive Feedback: Don't shy away from seeking feedback on your code and projects. Embrace constructive criticism as a catalyst for growth and improvement. Participate in code reviews, collaborate with peers, and leverage online resources to continuously refine your Java skills.

8. Stay Abreast of Developments: Java is a dynamic language with frequent updates and advancements. Stay informed about the latest trends, tools, and technologies in the Java ecosystem by following industry blogs, attending webinars, and exploring new frameworks and libraries.

9. Explore Advanced Topics: Once you've mastered the basics, delve into more advanced Java topics such as multithreading, networking, and database connectivity. Advanced Java courses, tutorials, and books offer deeper insights into these complex concepts, enabling you to expand your skill set further.

10. Build a Stellar Portfolio: As your Java proficiency grows, assemble a portfolio to showcase your projects and achievements. A well-curated portfolio serves as a compelling demonstration of your skills and capabilities to potential employers or clients. Highlight your standout projects, provide detailed descriptions, and showcase your problem-solving prowess to make a lasting impression.

Conclusion: Learning Java from home is an enriching journey that empowers individuals to unlock countless opportunities in software development. By setting clear goals, leveraging quality resources, practicing consistently, and engaging with the Java community, you can confidently master this versatile programming language and chart a successful career path in technology. Remember, dedication, perseverance, and a genuine passion for learning are the driving forces behind your Java learning journey's success.

[digitaldrive360-blog]

Are There Chances of Chatgpt Replacing Programmers?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is creating waves across various industries including the tech industry. The emergence of the various language models that include Chatgpt has left may wondering whether AI will be replacing the programmers. Chatgpt is a natural language chatbot that helps people write emails, college essays, song lyrics etc. Some of the earliest users of chatgpt have even used it to write the python code. The popularity of chatgpt has grown because of its practical applications. The question that however arises here is whether it will be able to replace the developers and the writers just as computers and robots have replaced cashiers and assembly line workers or perhaps the taxi drivers in the future. If you are interested in understanding how you can improve your work with chatgpt, you can pursue a good Search Engine Marketing Course In Gurugram.

Reasons for The Growing Popularity of Chatgpt

Chatgpt has been able to impress several people as it is able to simulate human conversations and also sounds quite knowledgeable. Chatgpt has been developed by OpenAI which is the creator of the most popular text to image AI engine called Dall- E. Chatgpt uses algorithms that helps in analysing and humans fine tune the system’s training to respond to the questions of the user with full sentences that sound similar to that of human beings.

Statistics Related to Chatgpt

A recent paper that was published by OpenAI revealed that as many as 80% of the US workforce have a minimum of 10% of their tasks affected by Chatgpt and other language models. Another research revealed that as many as 20% of the workers will find that 50% of their tasks will get affected by AI. If you want to become a web designer, you can get in touch with the best Search engine marketing institute in Gurgaon. Here you will get to learn about the use of chatgpt in the best way so that you are able to stay ahead in the competition.

The programmers can be relieved for now as it is not among the hundred professions that are going to be impacted by Chatgpt. Some of the professions that will be impacted include:

Why Will It Not Affect The Programmers?

Though Chatgpt is able to generate code and is also able to write programs, however, the process lacks proper understanding, problem solving ability and creativity that human beings have. It operates based on the patterns of the data that he was trained on. Like human programmers, it is not able to understand the code that it writes. It is also not able to understand the requirements of the projects and is not able to make It can’t understand project requirements, make architectural decisions to solve the human problems in a creative manner.

It is true that AI is able to automate repetitive tasks but programming is not just about writing codes. It is much more than that. Programming requires high level decision, personal interaction and strategic planning that AI is not able to do as these are elements that cannot be automated.

Software development is a creative field that requires users' understanding, based on feedback and sometimes abandoning the initial plans and starting all over again. All of these fall outside the realm of the AI capabilities. Pursuing a good online SEM course in Gurgaon will certainly benefit you.

Flaws of Chatgpt

1.   Chatgpt has some flaws and limitations and that is why it cannot be a perfect content writing tool. It is also not a very reliable tool for creating codes as it is based on data and not on human intelligence. The sentences might sound coherent but they are not critically informed responses.

2.   It is true that in the website of Chatgpt, you will find out ways that will help you debug code using this tool. But the responses are generated from prior code and it is incapable of replicating human based QA. This means that the code that it will generate will have bugs and errors. OpenAI have themselves accepted the fact that the tool at times writes plausible sounding but nonsensical and incorrect answers. So it is important for you to not use it directly in the production of any program.

3.   The lack of reliability is creating a lot of problems for the developer community. In a question and answer website called Stack Overflow, where the coders used chatgpt to write and troubleshoot codes have banned its use. The reason for this is that there is such a huge volume of response generated by Chatgpt that it could not keep up with the quality which is done by humans. The average rate of getting correct answers in chatgpt is quite less. So, chatgpt is harmful for the site and for those people who are looking for correct answers from that site.

4.   It is important to understand here that Chatgpt, like the other machine learning tools, is trained on data that suits its outcome. It is therefore unable to understand the human context of computing to do the programming properly. It is essential for the software engineers to understand the purpose of the software that they are developing and also the purpose of the people using it. It is not possible to create good software just by cobbling programs together.

Conclusion

So the simple answer to the question as to whether chatgpt will be able to replace the programmers is “No”. Chatgpt and the other AI tools can certainly automate the tasks, however they cannot replace human creativity, understanding and the problem solving capabilities. As of now we should consider AI as an augmenting force. It is a tool that helps programmers and software developers to be much more effective in their respective roles. Though chatgpt does have some flaws, if you want to learn to use it in the most effective way, you can get in touch with the Best SEM Training Institute in Gurgaon.

[upismediacenter]

UPIS commemorates Martial Law

The University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) joined to hold the UP Day of Remembrance in the UPIS 7-12 building last September 21, 2023.

Based on the online announcement OP 2023-01, the UPIS community was called to participate in the event in accordance with UP Memo No. PAJ 23-28. This event was intended to spread awareness of the horrors wreaked from Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s imposition of Martial Law decades earlier, as well as to share the UPIS voice and stand on the issue, stated by the UPIS Officer-in-charge Principal Diana Caluag.

The event started with the assembly of the grades 3-6 students at the 3-6 lobby and quadrangle and with grades 7-12 students at the 7-12 ramp area. A countdown was held before a minute of noise barrage, symbolizing the widespread protest and opposition during the Martial Law to honor the victims and survivors, this was then followed by a moment of silence.

CLIP: UPIS Day of Remembrance - Noise Barrage and Silence

The UPIS Social Studies Department and the Pamunuan ng Kamag-Aral (PKA) led the program and read the joint statement written with the UP College of Education. The UPIS Media Center also shared their statement and expressed their pledge to take part in rising up against historical denialism.

A controversial topic the speeches emphasized was the removal of the name “Marcos” on the subject “Diktaduryang Marcos,” in which has lead up to instilling ignorance in the country. To this, the UPIS Media Center stated that “It only proves how determined the Marcoses are to absolve themselves of their own crimes, to wash the blood off from their hands.”

In addition, the UP College of Education with UPIS posted on their Facebook page how it has a “political motive,” continuing, “If this is indeed the intention, then this directive deprives our students of the truth that will help them govern our society and nation properly in the generations to come.”

From the statements, students were reminded that this height in the country’s unjust state over the last 50 years should be revisited but disrecurred. As the chant the UPIS MC initiated, “Never again, never again, never again to Martial Law!” echoed through the high school building walls this day. // by Zaeda Wadi

#NeverAgain #NeverForget #NeverAgainToMartialLaw #DefendPressFreedom

Photo Credits: UPIS Media Center

[taxibookingapplikeuberclone]

How to Build a Taxi Booking App Like inDriver, OLA, and Uber Clone App

In today's fast-paced world, convenience is key when it comes to transportation. Taxi booking apps like inDriver, OLA, and Uber have revolutionized the way people get around. If you're looking to join the ride-hailing industry and create your own successful taxi booking app, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll guide you through the process step by step.

Understanding the Market

Before diving into app development, it's crucial to conduct thorough market research. This research will help you identify your target audience, understand their needs, and analyze your competitors. Here's how you can get started:

Market Analysis

Begin by researching the ride-hailing market in your target region. Identify key players, market trends, and potential gaps in services.

Target Audience

Determine your app's target audience. Are you catering to everyday commuters, tourists, or a specific niche? Understanding your users' preferences is essential.

Building the App

Now that you have a clear understanding of the market, it's time to start building your taxi booking app. This process involves several steps:

Feature List

Create a detailed list of features your app will offer. This should include user registration, driver profiles, GPS tracking, payment processing, and more.

Technology Stack

Choose the right technology stack for your app. Consider whether you want to build a native app for iOS and Android or opt for a cross-platform solution.

Design and User Experience

Invest in an intuitive and user-friendly design. The app's interface should be easy to navigate for both passengers and drivers.

Development Team

Assemble a skilled development team or hire a reputable app development company to bring your vision to life.

Testing and Quality Assurance

Thoroughly test the app for bugs, glitches, and security vulnerabilities. Ensure it functions seamlessly before launch.

Deployment

Release your app on app stores like Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Optimize your app listing with relevant keywords and appealing visuals.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Compliance with local regulations is essential in the ride-hailing industry. Be sure to:

Obtain Necessary Permits

Check with local authorities to understand the permits and licenses required to operate a taxi booking service.

Data Privacy

Implement robust data privacy measures to protect user information and comply with data protection laws.

Marketing and Promotion

Once your app is live, you'll need to market it effectively to attract users:

Digital Marketing

Utilize digital marketing strategies like search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, and online advertising to reach a wider audience.

Incentives and Referral Programs

Encourage users to refer friends and family by offering incentives and referral bonuses.

Scaling and Expansion

As your app gains popularity, consider expanding your services:

Geographic Expansion

Explore opportunities to launch your app in neighboring cities or countries.

Additional Services

Introduce additional services such as food delivery, package delivery, or carpooling to diversify your offerings.

Conclusion

Building a taxi booking app like inDriver, OLA, and Uber requires careful planning, a dedicated team, and a commitment to delivering a top-notch user experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can embark on your journey to creating a successful taxi booking app.

FAQs

How much does it cost to develop a taxi booking app?

The cost of app development can vary significantly depending on factors like features, complexity, and the development team's rates. It's best to get a personalized quote from app developers.

Is it essential to have a mobile app for both iOS and Android?

While having apps for both platforms is ideal for reaching a broader audience, you can start with one platform and expand later based on user demand.

What is the key to attracting drivers to my platform?

Offer competitive commissions, a user-friendly driver app, and efficient payment processing to attract and retain drivers.

How can I ensure passenger safety in my app?

Implement background checks for drivers, allow users to share ride details with friends, and incorporate a ratings and reviews system for drivers.

What are some emerging trends in the ride-hailing industry?

Some emerging trends include electric and autonomous vehicles, eco-friendly options, and improved AI for better route optimization and user experience.

[candytheartmajor]

5 Things I learned about Online Labor

1. Exploitation in Silicon Valley

              Silicon Valley is known as the tech capital of the world. It is the most technically diverse and productive place in the world always innovating new technologies. Since 1957 Silicon valley has been viewed as having an informal place of work that sacrifices the appearance of hierarchy for an atmosphere of family. The informality of this environment discourages the formation of unions.

2. Hidden Exploitation around the world

              There are levels to the exploitation within silicon valley. Another group that is exploited, but often overlooked is those who are considered unskilled workers. These are people who participate in factory jobs that manufacture the products for companies like Apple and Microsoft. These people are unfortunately forced to work in poor conditions, are underpaid and underappreciated. An example of this would bet the Chinese manufacturing company Foxconn where workers were forced to live in dormitories within the factories with multiple people to a room. In 2010 eighteen assembly workers committed suicide as a result of the working conditions.

3. Slavery in the Modern Tech Industry

              A material that is very valuable to many companies within Silicon Valley, is cobalt. Coltan is a product that is put into many different electronic devices and products, such as phones and electric vehicles. 80% of the world’s coltan is found in Congo which has the largest cobalt mine in the world. Congo has a history of being exploited. From 1885 to 1908 Congo, known then as Belgian Congo, around 15 million people were killed in the production of rubber. The coltan nine uses cheap labour and exploits children in the cultivation of coltan. These children are kept in slave like condition, being paid barely anything and often risking their lives. (Trusolino, 2023)

4. How you are being exploited.

              As consumers of digital media, we are not only consuming content, but creating it. We are employees that keep the social media platforms of our choice alive. Though this is still morally questionable we still have the added benefit of enjoying the content we produce. This is not always the case. Lisa Nakamura in her articled titled The Unwanted Labour of Social Media where she discussed the unpaid and unappreciated labour of people of colour, specifically woman of colour online. These people take the roles of moderators on different platforms, policing misogyny, homophobia, and racism. Even though what they do is important they are often met with vitriol. These people should not have to take on these roles and if they do, should be compensated. (Nakamura, 2015)

5. The rise of Neoliberalism

              Neoliberalism was a concept firmly rooted in North American politics and government in the 1970’s. The theory liberates the individual to be able to freely use their entrepreneurial skills within the institutional framework. The results of this concept are the free market, free trade, and the privatization of property. The problem with this concept is that the government is absolved of a portion of its responsibility to the people, dropping useful programs that help facilitate peoples growth. It only benefits the people who have the ability to obtain entrepreneurial skills and discourages employees from unionizing.

Related sources:  

Nakamura, L. (2015). The Unwanted Labour of Social Media: Women of Colour Call Out Culture As Venture Community Management. New Formations, 86(86), 106–112. https://doi.org/10.3898/NEWF.86.06.2015

Trusolino , M. (2023). Lecture 5: Political Economy of Social Media: The Consumer and Free Labour [Power Point Slides].

[furnituremartsonline]

4 Reasons You Should Buy Furniture Online

Shopping for furniture doesn't have to be hopping tirelessly through showrooms and coordinating delivery dates in-store. With a few clicks, you can conveniently purchase furniture online and upgrade your space. However, there are several other benefits of choosing online furniture shopping that you are unaware of. Want to learn more about the furniture store online? Check out this Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1756742905261544 and get additional information.

More variety, better choices You can find a range of furniture styles, options, brands, colors, and materials to choose from online. Are you searching for a rustic coffee table, a modern sofa, bedroom furniture, or a storage cabinet? Online platforms offer an array of choices in one place to pick your style. With so much variety available online, you will undoubtedly find something to suit your taste, need, and preference. Compare prices Comparing prices is the most significant advantage of buying a furniture piece online. Several websites offer furniture at different prices. You can pick your preferred website and order furniture that fits your budget. Additionally, you can read useful customer feedback on the furniture’s quality and make an informed decision. You can also check for seasonal discounts, offers, and buy-and-get-free programs before placing your order. Many online stores also offer additional deals and online bundles at an affordable price during the holiday season. Shop online and save a dime! Check this for premium quality furniture pieces. Easy delivery and returns Who doesn't like to get huge furniture pieces delivered to their doorstep? It is one of the perks of shopping online. Many online sellers offer to deliver and assemble the furniture piece at your home, saving you the worry of transporting and fitting the equipment in your car. It also saves you the cost of hiring a delivery company to transport your furniture. Browse the best online furniture store for affordable décor pieces.

Honest customer reviews Buying online offers you real insights into customer reviews and ratings. These insights can help you get honest opinions on the quality, comfort, look, and durability of a piece. The results? You make smarter decisions before clicking the buy button and avoid products that do not match customer expectations. Buying furniture or home décor New Orleans online is now effortless with Furniture Mart. You can pick a piece with confidence and skip the frustration of hopping through showrooms at this online store. To get more details, visit https://furnituremarts.com/ Contact: 1-800-763-6278 Original Source: https://bit.ly/3TjMf0p