42 PEDAGOGY
The 42 pedagogical approach focuses not only on coding, but also on critical thinking, problem-solving, innovation, collaboration, creativity and entrepreneurship.
The 42 curriculum enables students to acquire both general and specialised skills which make them qualified for tech jobs now and in the future. Most importantly, here students learn how to learn – the ultimate future-proof skill!
Our Pillars
Learning to learn
42 students of tomorrow will work with technology that does not yet exist today. Therefore, it is critical that students develop the ability to carry on learning beyond their studies and to adapt quickly to this rapidly changing world.
Through 42’s model, which focuses on self-study and collective intelligence, students learn to find the information they need to solve tomorrow’s problems.
At 42, students learn how to look for, find, test and implement solutions both on their own and with the help of peers, so that they can continue to develop their skills.
Peer-to-peer learning and peer evaluation
Peer-to-peer learning removes the teacher in favor of collaborative learning between students. Through collaboration, students seek and share knowledge, solve real problems and achieve goals – together. Peer learning adds value in the ability to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation. All projects are evaluated by other students both in the Piscine and during studies. This is what we call peer evaluation. This system supports dialogue and allows for advice to be shared between students which in turn helps students move forward and seek alternative ways. There is no such thing as one correct answer at 42!
No books, no semesters, no classes
42’s educational approach is to provide each student with all the amenities they need to learn programming. Open spaces with computers and high-speed networks are available. Students can wander through the building and sit wherever they feel comfortable. This helps to motivate students to connect with peers with different opinions, values, and explanations. The responsibility of how many hours to put in and how to handle projects is entirely up to each student. Whether at night or during the day, sitting at their computer or with peers on the whiteboard, using books or Google – it depends on the individual’s way of learning.
No teachers
Unlike traditional methods, students learn programming through a peer-to-peer learning method. 42 believes in the power of students who find, test, and implement their own solutions together with like-minded people. In this setting, peers and teachers are interchangeable concepts. Of course, tutors are always present to support and motivate the students. However, the staff never gives a hint, let alone the solution to the problem. The reason for this is because by finding their own solution, we aim for students to develop problem-solving skills.
Tuition-free
The aim of 42 is to ensure equal access to quality education at no cost to students. The entire 42 journey is completely tuition-free before, during and after their studies.In addition, 42 campuses’ facilities are available free of charge, even when a student decides to cancel their application. The personal and social background should not prevent talented students from applying to 42. Studying at any 42 campuses all around the world is 100% free and will always be free. We are a non-profit organization that aims to provide accessible high-quality education to talented individuals from all walks of life.
No prior experience or diploma
To apply to 42, you do not need any programming experience, nor do you need a previous diploma or school record to apply. The most important skill you need is logic. Previous experience, diplomas, or lack thereof should not be the deciding factor for the student to start programming! The only requirement is that you must be of legal age. There is no maximum age and no further requirements. Rather than having a specific background, education, or degree, we only ask for your motivation and commitment to the three-year study program.