The z/Education! Podcast – Episode 9

This episode features Geoffrey Decker, an instructor in Computer Science at the Northern Illinois University (NIU) and a firm believer in quality over quantity when teaching programming. Geoffrey encourages getting students “down and dirty into the programming” — not just teaching theory or showing pictures — so they truly “program and really test their skills.” 

His goal? 

Geoffrey wants students to learn so well that “they can teach themselves advanced techniques.” 

Advice to educators: 

His message is clear: “No teacher of programming should just be a droner. Don’t drone — bring your enthusiasm and a solid, positive attitude to teaching.” This mindset transformed his tough Assembler class into an engaging experience that sparked students’ interest to sign up for and continue with advanced Mainframe courses. 

Don’t miss the rapid-fire questions at the end — you won’t believe how many vinyl LPs and CDs he owns! If you guess right, let me know!! 

🎧 Don’t miss this motivating conversation with Geoffrey!  

Resources 

Visit the IBM Z Educator Hub User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for IBM Z educators to find the latest communications, news and events, as well as collaborate and network. Check out technical lecture’s, blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  

Join here 

Subscribe to “The z/Education!” Podcast. Each month we talk to IBM Z Educators from around the world on their success stories, journeys and their best practices.