How to introduce a computer illiterate 50-year old to programming
<p>The other day my dad asked me a question that I would have never expected from him.</p>

<p>"How can I learn C++?"</p>

<p>My dad is turning 56 this year and computers are a distant concept for him. He doesn't know how to use a phone very well besides calling numbers (no speed dial or contacts); though he has started to learn computers a little better - to the point that he knows how to open the internet (in Windows) and browse around (and has successfully completed several job applications entirely on his own online, of which he was offered positions too). But still, these are too narrow-windowed experiences to mean much, really.</p>

<p>While he may not have the background, my dad knows how to read. And I mean reading as a skill, not just an ability. He has little to no college education (financial problems, family, etc.) and was fortunate enough to finish high school, but still taught himself to become a master electrician and has been one for almost 30 years now. He did the same with guitar, learning to play at a very professional level and has been praised for his skill. In high school, he picked up a weight lifting book - and was the only person in his high school at the time to qualify officially as an "athlete" by national standards.</p>

<p>In all cases, he just needed something to read. Something to teach him. He absorbs information like a sponge.</p>

<p>I have no doubt in my dad's motivation or capability of doing this, so my general goal is simply:</p>

<p><strong>Get my dad into the world of computers, and get him on the road to programming.</strong></p>

<p>I strongly believe that once I get him through the fundamentals, his drive and reading skill will keep him going on this own. </p>

<p>So I'm asking you all: where should I start with all this? And what are the best resources out there? Should I get him to start Linux instead of Windows? Is C++ a bad idea? </p>

<p>Remember, he needs to (IMO) learn computers first, and then get that first grasp (the "Hello world" experience) of programming.</p>

<p>For money's sake and at top preference, I'd like free online resources that he can read, but by all means any good suggestions in print or paid-for-online are welcome (that I could possibly look into later to purchase).</p>

<p>And also, I intend to start him off with C++ (no Python, Java, etc.), because I know it the best and will be able to help him along the way with code. (I have minimal knowledge right now in other languages).</p>

<p>Edit: I'm getting a lot of persistent suggestions to use Python. The only reason I wanted to do C++ is that I KNOW it and can be THERE when my dad needs help. My VERY FIRST exposure to programming ever was Java. I learned Java, and I got good at it. I open to other suggestions, but please provide an effective application of your suggestions.</p>

<p>EDIT #2: I understand my approach/thinking/knowledge could be lacking here. I'm a sophomore level undergraduate CS major. If you don't agree with anything in my post, tell me why - give me ideas, information - that's why I'm asking in the first place. To narrow down my general goal to specific reachable goals. </p>
