Tutoring
Who Am I?
I’m Oliver, a Christchurch-born game developer with experience working for established studios such as Cerebralfix, independent contracting, and running my own game studio. I have a keen passion for teaching programming and game development to students of any level. I have taught at both an academic level at the University of Canterbury, as well as to primary and secondary level students at an afterschool learning centre.
Why Learn To Program?
Learning how to code will teach you systems thinking at a fundamental level. Programming is complex, and requires you to develop a mental model of the system you are building - anticipating what the computer state will be in at a particular moment and how computer logic will be evaluated. Learning how to program will develop your understanding of logic, systems theory and working with abstractions.
At its core, programming is simply problem solving. However programming is not as simple as just finding solutions to problems - each solution chosen by a developer has benefits and drawbacks. Learning how to program will teach you how to critically analyse problems and their possible solutions to ensure you make the best design decisions.
Programming isn’t just about writing code - through learning how to develop games, students can develop a new creative outlet which branches into many different fields. Games are a meeting point of artistic and technical knowledge, allowing students to combine their passion for drawing, narrative and music with their programming skills.
What do I teach?
I teach Python and C#, two of the world’s most widely used programming languages. My focus is on developing the skills and mental habits needed to write code which solves problems effectively.
I believe strongly in a no-shortcuts, fundamentals-first approach to learning programming. My students first learn the absolute basics of code, which are applicable across each and every language. Once you understand these basic elements, such as variables, conditionals, and loops, you will be able to comprehend all major programming languages at a basic level.
Python is the world’s most widely used programming language, and a solid start for beginners. Highly flexible, easily readable and well documented, this language is where you will develop your confidence working with computers. Python is an essential language to learn for those looking at working in Computer Science, and is highly recommended for students entering software engineering, data analysis and engineering disciplines.
C# (C sharp) is a popular programming language developed by Microsoft. In this language you will learn to create large scale software and to develop professional games in Unity, the world’s most widely used game engine. C# provides a beginner friendly introduction to ‘C style’ programming languages such as the ubiquitous C and C++, while also being a fantastic platform for learning object-orientation, making it a great jumping off point for those wanting to learn Java.
My teaching is designed to both equip students with everything they need to enter computer science, software engineering or game development programs at an academic level.
Getting In Touch
If you are interested in tutoring or would like any more informtation, please don't hesitate to get in contact with me.