monimoni

I am an architect and have for the past year been fiddling with Processing, VRML. Now I would like to learn a programming language fully and well that could help me design and build in real-time 3D, also help me design web interactive applications. basically, help me find a good job where visual graphics etc are required.
Can anyone suggest which language should I start learning for the most flexibility. Thanks

Infinite Recursion

C++ with OpenGL / DirectX

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Ooble

C++ with OpenGL (cross-platform, graphics only) or DirectX (Windows-only, but supports, sound, input, networking etc.) is your best bet for the 3D graphics. However, you're unlikely to want to build a web application in C++, as it's currently unsupported. Different languages do different things, y'see. Java and Flash are very good for running applications within a browser window (I prefer Flash, but that's another story). Do some research, and let us know how it turns out.

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Infinite Recursion

You have a bit of web functionality with C++... through CGI, CURL, etc.

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Ooble

I think what he wanted was an applet in the Java sense, rather than a static page.

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monimoni

Thank you very much for your suggestions.
Is there a good course (web based or London based) that anyone is aware to learn C++.
Since I am a total beginer I need someone to be able to ask questions. Just learning from books by myself is kind of intimidating.

coldDeath

http://www.cplusplus.com/doc/tutorial/
That one is quite useful, alternitively, you can check my list here: http://www.programmingforums.org/for...ead.php?t=5405

edit: sorry didn't notice that you thought you needed someone to help.
A good idea would be to try to do that tutorial, then ask for help in these forums, people are willing to help you.

Also you will want Dev-C++ to compile your code. http://www.bloodshed.net/devcpp.html
it's quite good and free

monimoni

Hello Ooble and Infinite Recursion
Thanks for your response.
Just need a little more help on the subject:
Now, in order to get maximum job flexibility and wider applications (where my architectural background will be an advantage) what would you advise. Also, what would be easier to learn and master. i have been told Java is easier to learn. Is C++ very difficult? How long can it take if I were to learn it full time?
Most appreciate some insight into this.

Infinite Recursion

Monimoni, C++ and Java are the two "hot languages" right now... at least in the USA. To add to your job flexibility, know some various technologies and how to interact with them on the programming level... some products to become familiar with: MySQL, Oracle, Postgres, Websphere, LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol), Active Directory, STL (Standard Template Library), a few graphics libraries (OpenGL / DirectX), Win32 API, MFC, Apache, IIS, MS Sharepoint, etc. There are a lot of jobs in my area for database programming, client-server programming, parallel processing and distributed computing. Become familiar with the technologies that are used in the location where you want to work... this can be derived by what companies are in the area. For instance, if you wanted to work for a cell phone company, learn WAP (Wireless Access Protocol)... learn how to write code feor PDA (Personal Data Assistants), and cellular phones, etc.

I wouldn't say Java is easier or harder really. I suggest learning C++ and Java. Personally, I learned C++ then Java, not Java first. When you know one language you pretty much know them all, just have to learn the syntax and keywords for each language. I would also suggest picking up PHP or C# eventually, since they are closely related to C++ and Java.

I can't, nor anyone in here, tell you what will be easier for you to learn... because we don't know your skill set, level of dedication, what motivates you, etc. You can become functional in a language in less than a month... To be considered an "expert" would take years... I've been writing code for about 15 years in different languages and honestly, I do not consider myself an "expert" in any of them...

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monimoni

Thank you very much coldDeath and Infinite Recursion.
Very helpful all of this info. Appreciate infinitely!