Coding is perhaps one of the most lucrative career opportunities in the past decade, and it doesn’t seem like it will stop being sought-after any time soon. Simply put, we rely on computers more and more, and we need someone to build and maintain all that infrastructure.
That’s why learning how to code can really be a game-changer for just about anyone. However, if you don’t know where to start and how to do it, don’t worry. We asked experts to LEARN Academy to answer a few questions on coding, primarily where you can learn it. Here’s what they had to say.
Coding Is a Complex Term
First of all, it is important to learn that the term ‘coding’ is an umbrella term that covers a lot of different things which are more or less complicated to learn, depending on the complexities of the tasks you will end up doing.
In recent years, some of the most needed and most popular coding languages are Java, PHP, and Python. Each of them has different rules, different roles and requires different skills from you. However, what they all have in common is that they can be learned in more ways than one.
Formal Education in College
If you are young and just looking for your passion, consider enrolling in a coding course as a part of your formal education. Many people respond really well to the formal setting of a school or a college and they learn well there.
If you enjoy what you learn in these introductory courses, you can take more courses in college, or even after college as a way to perfect yourself. However, the downside of formal education when it comes to coding is that it can sometimes be a bit behind on the latest trends. Technology is a fast-changing environment, and the curriculum may not be quick enough to change and reflect that.
Teach Yourself
Nowadays, it is possible to teach yourself a wide variety of different skills, including coding. There are online video courses on streaming platforms that can serve as non-formal education and teach you a lot of the basics which you will need.
Alternatively, there are a variety of books available either free or for really small amounts of money. These books often contain comprehensive instructions and everything you need to learn a coding language. However, there is a downside to this kind of education as well. If you don’t understand something, or you get stuck, there really isn’t anyone who can help you and direct you.
Get an Experienced Coder to Teach You
If you can find a coder who has enough time and will to teach you how to code, this option might be ideal. Working with someone who really knows what they are doing can be a lot of help.
On the other hand, it may be a bit daunting, too – especially for a complete beginner to see someone navigate the complex architecture so easily.
Enroll in a Coding Bootcamp
If you want to learn relatively fast and in an environment specifically created to teach people how to code for the needs of the market, your best bet is probably coding bootcamps. These schools tend to have small groups, a really good and up-to-date curriculum, and the best of them will offer you an internship where you can show off what you have learned.
There are different courses of different lengths, depending on what you are trying to achieve, but all of them promise to leave you functionally literate in the coding language you chose to learn.
What you do with your new-found skill is really up to you. There are countless applications for coding, and new ones are being invented daily.