Ask HN: Senior developers – how are you learning new languages in the age of AI?
I'm a senior software engineer with 14 years of Python experience, now on a year-long sabbatical focused on learning Elixir and functional programming. My current approach is the traditional one: I rely on high-quality books and hands-on coding—much like the intensive, immersive study I experienced in college.
Detailed my syllabus for those interested in specifics:
https://flaviuspopan.com/elixir-year-technical-sabbatical/
That said, lots has changed in our world lately. I’m using LLMs as tutors to discuss concepts and clarify doubts—rather than to spoon-feed me code—but I sometimes wonder if waiting to fully grasp a language before using these tools is the optimal strategy.
Are you embracing traditional methods, or have you jumped straight into AI-assisted learning? What mix of deep study and AI guidance has worked best for you?
Detailed my syllabus for those interested in specifics: https://flaviuspopan.com/elixir-year-technical-sabbatical/
That said, lots has changed in our world lately. I’m using LLMs as tutors to discuss concepts and clarify doubts—rather than to spoon-feed me code—but I sometimes wonder if waiting to fully grasp a language before using these tools is the optimal strategy.
Are you embracing traditional methods, or have you jumped straight into AI-assisted learning? What mix of deep study and AI guidance has worked best for you?