You can leverage mobile apps, open online courses, websites, podcasts, and blogs to supplement computer science degree materials. Free resources such as blogs and podcasts can also help with continuing computer science education. It pays to keep abreast of real-world industry news and discussion in the fast-moving world of computer scientists and technology.
9 apps to learn and practice coding
8 online computer science course providers
Many providers offer massive open online courses (MOOCs) in computer science, some of them from top colleges and universities. Learn: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, Node, React, Java, Swift Description: Codemurai uses thousands of mini-lessons created by industry leaders to teach all the most popular coding languages, including JavaScript, Python, and HTML, along with over a dozen more. Lessons cover the foundations of web, game, and mobile app development. Learn: Java Description: Easy Coder is a mobile app for learning Java that utilizes short, interactive lessons, quizzes, and programming challenges to teach fundamental programming concepts. The app’s built-in Java compiler allows learners to instantly test code as they learn. Learn: Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS Description: Encode is an Android-only app that teaches the major coding languages, consisting of short mini-lessons followed by interactive challenges. The app does not require an internet connection to run, allowing learners to use it virtually anywhere. Learn: JavaScript, Java, Python, React, SQL Description: Enki is a popular free app for learning how to code, designed for daily use in short sessions. Lessons, practices, and quizzes use spaced repetition algorithms that adapt to learners’ individual needs. Learners can also buy a subscription plan to access certain advanced lessons. Learn: JavaScript Description: Grasshopper teaches beginner to intermediate level JavaScript using a game-like structure. The app uses interactive visual puzzles and real-time feedback to supplement short lessons and quizzes and to boost problem-solving skills. Learners can even collect virtual achievements as they develop their skills. Learn: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, SQL, C++, Swift, Python Description: Mimo is an app for teaching beginner-level coding fundamentals through interactive mini-lessons designed for daily use in short blocks. The app’s structure often resembles a game, with various achievements and badges offered for positive reinforcement as learners progress. Learn: HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, JavaScript Description: Programming Hero teaches coding fundamentals for web, mobile app, and game development using a combination of self-guided mini-projects and game-like design features. While users complete short programming projects, challenges, and exercises, they can design their own game from scratch. Learn: Python, Assembly, HTML, C++, JavaScript, CSS, Java Description: Programming Hub is Google’s Editor’s Choice app for learning coding, and was developed in part by Google experts. The app caters largely to intermediate learners looking to learn multiple coding languages. Completion of the app’s different courses results in an e-certification. Learn: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, Python, Java, C++, PHP, SQL, Swift Description: Solo Learn is a free app offering over 20 courses on coding fundamentals such as Python, JavaScript, and data science. Students can also use the online code playground to test code. Completing courses results in earning a professional certification. Auditing computer science courses for free can arm you with new knowledge at no cost. You can also pay to take online computer science courses to earn a certification or college credit.
5 computer science networking, forums, and inspiration
You can build your coding skills and knowledge of computer science concepts by immersing yourself in online communities for networking and inspiration. Learners get free daily practice and interactive lessons with a basic plan. For $19.99 monthly under an annual plan, students can get additional practice and support. SEE: Breaking down Codecademy: Cost, popular courses, career paths, and alternatives A membership to earn professional certificates through Coursera costs $39 monthly. A typical Khan Academy course consists of a series of short videos accompanied by practice exercises. Educators often use this platform to supplement classroom learning. MIT is a preeminent university for computer science, making this archive a goldmine for people interested in programming and coding. Nanodegrees, abbreviated degree programs in coding and computer programming topics, typically cost $700-$15,000. Most paid courses on Udemy cost $20-$200, though the site routinely offers discounts and coupons to members via email. These resources can help you find answers to tough questions and helpful feedback in a pinch. You can also find computer science job opportunities and tech internships through networking sites and online communities.
5 computer science podcasts
8 blogs on the computer science industry
The site also features a regularly updated job postings section. Beginning developers can expect to encounter this site early on, because it is a popular and useful platform for collaborative work. It also hosts coding portfolios via GitHub Pages. If you are a beginning level developer or student, a LinkedIn profile is a great platform for giving your portfolio visibility. Many coders use Stack Overflow as a knowledge base or way to get quick, direct answers to questions. CodeNewbie is an educational podcast series on topics in computer programming hosted by developer Saron Yitbarek. The weekly series spotlights helpful tips for beginning level coders, with each episode featuring an interview/conversation with a different STEM professional on a given topic. The Computer Science podcast was established by Oxford University to give everyday listeners access to talks on topics in computer science such as computational linguistics, quantum computing, and software engineering from Professor Nick Trefethen. The series typically puts out a new episode every few months. The Mike Tech Show is a podcast hosted by developer Mike Smith about software development and information technology. The show focuses mainly on productivity tips for tech professionals, with Smith occasionally telling tech-related stories from his own professional experiences and emails from listeners. Podnutz Pro is a tech culture podcast on business IT tips and support, hosted by Jeff Halash and a revolving door of other tech professionals. The podcast is part of the Podnutz network of podcasts for professional tips on tech topics. Spark is a Canadian tech radio show hosted by broadcaster Nora Young since 2007. The show, now available as a podcast, touches on issues in tech culture. Recent guests have included Louisa Ha, who spoke with Young about YouTube’s role as a cultural artifact. While most posts focus on technical issues, others discuss general lifestyle habits or have a humorous slant. Blog post topics encompass biotechnology, computer science, and artificial intelligence, among many others. Blog posts are organized into six categories for easy navigation: Business Resources, Career Advice, Community, Engineering People Podcast, Learn, and Treehouse News.
