How to maintain my computer knowledge

[ashishp]

I am working as a Stenographer in a government organisation. But my interest is in computers so I have done a 2 years computer diploma. Now I cannot quite the job till 5 years due to my contract with my present employer. But I would like to maintain my previous knowldge of computer ( and improve my previous knowlede of computer language) as well as learn new things in programming. What should I do? Because presently I don't have any work related to my interest. But I will continue it when I have opportunity...

Kindly help me!!! only your guidanc can show light in the dark path of my objective. Because u people know how to keep IT knowledge up-to-date.

[JohnDavidHanna]

I have never heard of a five year contract for a stenographer. In any event, even if you are locked into a job, you found time to get that two year computer degree. The technology is advancing so fast you need to stay involved seriously, so I suggest you develop a program in an area that interests you. A writer writes! The same I think for a programmer. Develop a program, solve the problems, and do not be afraid to advance into an area of new skills. How have you been doing since this post?
John

[Manish Malik]

First, start reading about current computer technologies (books, articles, whatever you can find) and don't stop reading about a technology until you are confident you understand the basics of it.

Second, if you want to keep yourself updating on the programming line, then keep visitng websites for programmers (codeguru.com is one of them) and add them to your favourites. Read new programming tutorials and occasionally try to develop small utilities,etc.

Third, an extension to the first, keep yourself updated on the IT news front. You can visit sites like www.news.com or www.itspace.com or www.slashdot.org regularly and this will ensure you are up-to-date with current affairs in computer industry.