From: Ruby User <durham.coho@...>
Date: 2010-12-29T07:56:05+09:00
Subject: Re: Should I learn Ruby?

Din Ibbles wrote in post #971115:
> I am wondering whether to learn Ruby, as I would like to get a job after
> learning.
>
> Is Ruby a dying language?
>
> Many thanks for the answers, sorry my English isn't that great.

You can't "get a job" by learning a programming language. That's like 
saying "I want to build houses. Should I learn how to use a hammer?" 
Yes, you should learn how to use a hammer. Also a saw and a screwdriver. 
Also how to read blueprints, how to do electrical wiring, plumbing, and 
many more skills.

To get a job you need to learn how to write computer programs. 
Programming can be done, and usually is done, in many languages. 
Typically your employer picks the language. Or languages, since most 
programming tasks worth paying somebody to do require a mastery of 
several different programming languages. A skilled programmer can learn 
a new programming language "on the fly," as part of the real task he's 
being paid to do. Yes, you have to start with one programming language 
and Ruby is a great first programming language, but it's just the start. 
Just like learning how to hammer a nail is a place to start learning how 
to build a house.

Also you'll want to have some understanding of the kinds of math used in 
computer programming as well as the ability to express yourself clearly 
both verbally and in writing. And more basic skills, such as being able 
to be at work when you're expected, dress like your boss expects, etc.

By the way, my first programming languages were FORTRAN, COBOL, and 
BASIC. All 3 are pretty much dead, but I learned how to write programs 
and that skill has been putting food on my table for 27 years.

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