Version control is a name used for software that can help you record changes you make to the files in a directory on your computer. This workshop will introduce the concepts of version control and introduce the tools Git (software) and GitHub (cloud service). This workshop is for beginners and no previous experience with Git or version control is required.

At its most basic level, version control software helps us register and track sets of changes made to files on our computer. We can share those changes with others. As we build up sets of changes over time, we have a history of the changes and the ability to bring back versions of the files even after a set of changes have occurred.

Benefits of using version control:

• Collaboration - Version control allows us to define formalized ways we can work together and share writing and code. For example, merging together sets of changes from different parties enables the co-creation of documents and software across distributed teams.
• Versioning - Having a robust and rigorous log of changes to a file, without renaming files (v1, v2, final_copy)
• Rolling Back - Version control allows us to quickly undo a set of changes. This can be useful when new writing or new additions to code introduce problems.
• Understanding - Version control can help you understand how the code or writing came to be, who wrote or contributed particular parts, and who you might ask to help understand it better.
• Backup - While not meant to be a backup solution, using version control systems mean that your code and writing can be stored on multiple other computers.

For any questions, please contact the workshop instructor laufers@ou.edu.

Requirements

• Pre-requisites: A basic understanding of the Unix shell
• Software requirements: none
  • Please bring a computer with a modern browser. Access to software will be made available via a JupyterLab portal.
• Registration is: required
• Minimum registrations for workshop to be hosted is 15.

Accessibility

• Materials
  • The curriculum is freely available online at: https://swcarpentry.github.io/git-novice/
• Format
  • This workshop will be offered in person.
  • Next semester, we will offer in person.
• Scheduling
  • This workshop is typically offered once per semester.
  • This workshop can also be scheduled on request.
  • We have 2 breaks, at a rate of about one per hour.
• Captioning
  • Automatic captioning is not provided by default.
  • Food/drinks
    • Food and drinks are not provided.
    • Food and drinks are allowed in the classroom.
    • Water fountains are available on all floors.
    • Bizzell Memorial Library has a coffee shop on LL1 (hours may vary) and vending machines on LL1, in the hall east of LL118 (the community room).
• Restrooms
  • Gendered restrooms are available on the same floor.
  • Family restrooms are available on the same floor.
• For additional accommodations on the basis of disability, please contact the workshop instructor laufers@ou.edu.