Relearning How to Think

Speaker:
Mackenzie Morgan


Abstract:

Raise your hand if you feel like whatever programming classes you’ve taken adequately covered functional programming. My hand is down. How about yours?

The typical data structure & algorithms class assumes that you have arrays, pointers, and the ability to change the data at the other end of your pointer. Recursion is treated as a neat little toy. That’s not the world we’re programming in here.

In this talk, we’ll explore how the differences between functional programming in Elixir and imperative programming lead us to take different approaches in structuring our algorithms. We’ll start with a refresher on some basics before diving into the sample problems. We’ll also address efficient use of recursion.

TALK OBJECTIVE:

  • Fill the knowledge gap left by the imperative-programming-centricity of typical data structures & algorithms courses and resources, so that Elixir devs can write performant code.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

  • People transitioning to Elixir from more mainstream tech stacks.

Level:
Beginners

Tags:
optimization, algorithms, functional