Programming languages are the basic tools to create and manage software, applications, and websites in a world that is predominantly run by computers. The demand for competent programmers is increasing with the changes taking place in technology. Hence, the development of an understanding of new programming techniques and tools has become very much necessary for professionals.
Whether you are a complete newbie wishing to begin your journey to coding or an old programmer looking to gain mastery further, free online courses for programming languages can be the most flowing channel for doing so. Keeping that in perspective, this article will review a few of the most accessible free online courses in programming languages available just about everywhere from platforms such as Udemy to MyGreatLearning.
One should understand the reason for learning programming languages before jumping into going through the available courses. Programming languages form the base of all software development. They help developers communicate with the computer and create applications that run tasks in specific variations. The relevance of the programming language is important in any aspect, whether it's web development, data science, artificial intelligence, or mobile application development.
In addition, Learning programming languages let one have lots of job opportunities flow in. Every company, almost, any industry needs professionals who could help in making and maintaining their digital infrastructure. The rate at which the demand for programming expertise has grown from nascent startups to tech giants enhances your employability with such a high proficiency in various programming languages.
Platform: Udemy
Description: Great course if you are a beginner and looking forward to understanding programming. Python is among the most used languages in programming due to its simplicity and versatile nature. This course covers all the basic concepts of Python starting from syntax, variables, loops, and functions. You will write programs by the end and understand the very core of programming.
What You Will Learn:
Python Syntax and Structure
Simple data types and variables
Control flow: if, else, loops
Functions and modules
Error handling and debugging
Platform: MyGreatLearning
Description: Java is a widely used programming language, especially in the corporate world. This course will help you learn Java from scratch covering OOPs, DS, and algorithms through Java. The content has been specifically designed to cater to beginners and those who wish to re-tap into the concepts of Java.
What You'll Learn:
Syntax and Data Types in Java
Concepts of Object-oriented programming
Usage of Arrays and Collections
Writing and Java code testing
Foundational algorithms and data structures
Platform: Udemy
Description: JavaScript is the base behind which web development exists, providing developers with the power to create dynamic, interactive websites. The course focuses on the basics of JavaScript, from basic syntax to advanced concepts such as DOM manipulation and event handling. This course is perfect for anyone interested in front-end development.
What You'll Learn:
JavaScript syntax and operators
Functions, objects, and arrays
Dom manipulation and event handling
Asynchronous programming with Promises and async/await functions
Manipulating APIs and JSON
Platform: MyGreatLearning
Description: C++ can be a very powerful language that is majorly used in system/software development, game development, and competitive programming. This course takes you deep into C++ programming and will cover all aspects from syntax to advanced topics like pointers and memory management.
What you will learn:
Syntax and structure of C++
Variables, data types, and operators
Control structures (loops, conditional statements)
Pointers, memory allocation, and arrays
Object-oriented programming with C++
Platform: Udemy
Description: R is a programming language that is commonly used for statistical analysis and data visualization in the field of data science. This course exposes basic notions of R programming, the ability to manipulate data, carry out different kinds of statistical tests, and make visualizations. This appropriately matches the learner who is willing to perform some data analysis along with learning a bit of data science.
What You'll Learn:
R programming basics
Data manipulation and analysis with R
Statistical tests and data visualization
Manipulation of datasets and R libraries
Introduction to Machine Learning using R
Platform: MyGreatLearning
Description: A must-know for all those who deal with databases, SQL is abbreviated as Structured Query Language. The course introduces a student to the basics of SQL. This goes all the way from writing simple queries to base-level manipulation to the knowledge of database structure. It is a good course for people commencing or willing to solidify their SQL skills.
What You will learn:
SQL Syntax and commands
Querying and filtering data
Create and modify database tables
Implementing joins, subqueries, and indexes
Normalization and database best practices
Platform: Udemy
Description: Kotlin is the language of preference for developing mobile applications. The course is designed to assist learners in exploring Kotlin programming and its basics, and next, to create and construct basic applications with integration with Android Studio.
Ideal for: Aspirants with an eager interest in Mobile App Development
What You Will Learn:
Codigo Kotlin y conceptos de programación
Working with Android Studio
Creating fundamental Android apps
Learning about Android lifecycle and UI components
Overview of Kotlin coroutines and concurrency
Platform: MyGreatLearning
Description: Ruby has always been recognized for its simplicity and developer productivity. Especially in web application development. This course is an introduction to Ruby programming, teaching basic syntax, data structures, and object-oriented programming. This is for beginners and for those intending to eventually learn Ruby on Rails.
What You Will Learn:
Ruby syntax and basic concepts
Variables, loops, and control flow
Object-oriented programming in Ruby
Manipulation of Ruby gems and libraries
Developing web applications using Ruby
How to Pick the Right Course
There are so many courses available online for free that it becomes difficult to choose the right one. Here is a guide to help you:
Check Your Current Level: If you are an absolute beginner, then start from the introductory courses on programming like "Introduction to Programming Using Python" or "Java Programming Fundamentals." If you are at the intermediate level, consider courses that include more advanced topics.
Evaluate Your Goals: What do you wish to achieve from learning any programming language? If you are seeking to develop for the online community, good picks might be "Web Development with JavaScript" or "Introduction to Ruby Programming". If you have an interest in Data Science, then take a look at "Data Science with R."
Look through the content of the course to ensure that what you want is offered. Some may be more theoretical; others may contain hands-on projects and exercises.
Check Reviews and Ratings: Especially on platforms like Udemy, this course has user reviews and ratings that give you an idea of the quality of the course and the teaching style of the instructor.
Consider Time Commitment: Some courses range from just a few hours to several weeks. While others are more comprehensive, select the courses based on which course will fit most in your calendar and at what pace you work best.
Learning any programming language can never be an uphill task anymore with free online courses available in abundance across different portals like Udemy and MyGreatLearning. From basic concepts to the expansion of knowledge, the courses can be very resourceful in reaching your goals related to programming. Availing these free courses can make a person knowledgeable enough to move on to the highly technical world and, in turn, have many more better job opportunities available.
1. Which programming languages are best for beginners?
From its simplest form, Python, and Java are highly recommended for beginners. Since they are both readable, have scours of people in large communities, and are resource-intensive, then the two are perfect. However, beginners can start with Python since it is very simple, especially in its syntax, hence best for beginners.
2. Are these free courses enough to get a job in programming?
Even though free courses are a great grounding, eventually to get a job requires further learning, practical experience, and sometimes even further certifications. The courses have to be supplemented with projects, internships, or advanced paid courses to build a competitive portfolio.
3. How long will it take to learn a programming language?
That depends on the complexity of the programming language and your learning speed. For example, you can master the basics of Python in a matter of a few weeks, but to become a professional, you may need to invest months of practice and complete several projects in Python or work with Python libraries.
4. Can I learn two different programming languages at the same time?
While one can learn more than one programming language at one go, it's usually more effective to work on one language before developing a good base and moving on to another.
5. Do I need to have any sort of background information before taking these courses?
Most of the courses on this list are relatively 'beginner-friendly,' and you do not need to know the first thing about programming. That's said; basic familiarity with computers and a little mathematical study go a long way.