Throughout my decade-long career in internet marketing, my most significant personal edge stemmed from my electrical engineering background and comfort with coding. Today, you don’t need to return to university (and shoulder a hefty loan or re-mortgage) to catch up. Coding proficiency (and engaging in programming discussions) is crucial, not just for tech wizards. It empowers business professionals to pinpoint and swiftly address issues like faulty HTML snippets in content management systems, optimize landing pages more effectively, or harness the power of new Google Ads (AdWords) Scripts. Furthermore, it provides a fresh perspective on content creation when you grasp the inner workings of your systems, allowing you to experiment and be innovative.
Eager to learn coding? Explore these free resources to embark on your journey:
1. Dive into Hands-On Coding with Codecademy
Codecademy is on a mission to revolutionize education, which they believe is flawed (regardless of your stance, their argument holds weight).
Is Codecademy free?
Absolutely! Featured in renowned publications like Wired, Bloomberg, The Guardian, and numerous others, Codecademy is a widely popular free coding platform.
If you seek theoretical knowledge, this might not be your ideal starting point. Codecademy’s approach immerses you directly into practical coding through interactive lessons designed to foster hands-on experience. Choose from various courses like HTML & CSS, JavaScript, jQuery, Python, Ruby on Rails, and more. Here, you’ll acquire coding skills but won’t delve into the underlying “why” behind your actions. While other resources cater to that, if you’re a marketer or work with an HTML-based CMS, practical experience is paramount.
2. Delve into Coding Theory with MIT Open Courseware
For a deeper understanding of coding principles, MIT offers numerous programming courses. Their Open Courseware platform grants access to materials from 2,150 MIT courses, all freely available globally. Beginners should consider the Introduction to Computer Science and Programming course, demanding a commitment of three weekly hours. Students engage through the OpenStudy platform and forums, with the course encompassing video lectures, textual resources, and an exam.
3. Gamified Coding Lessons with Khan Academy
As one of the pioneers in free online coding education, Khan Academy utilizes a distinctive teaching methodology often incorporating game-based elements. Their Computer Programming course stays true to this approach. Using visuals, games, and animations, Khan Academy imparts knowledge of JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Students can interact online and even showcase their creations.
4. Video-Based Learning through Udemy
If your learning style leans towards a blend of visual, auditory, and independent practice, Udemy is an excellent starting point for coding. Instructors, ranging from academic institutions to industry experts, determine their course fees. You’ll find a plethora of free programming courses available at Udemy. Student reviews for each course provide valuable insights, aiding your decision-making process. The platform also offers a wide array of options for specific languages or programs.
5. World-Class Lessons at No Cost with Udacity
Udacity is the brainchild of Sebastien Thrun, a Stanford Research Professor, Google Fellow, and the inventor of the driverless car. His vision was to democratize education by offering courses online to students worldwide, free of charge. Their Intro to Computer Science program spans approximately 3 months with a 6-hour weekly commitment. Upon completion, you’ll have constructed your own search engine and social network! You can explore the course material for free or opt for the full experience with coaching at a fee.
6. Coursera: Your Gateway to International University Courses
Consider Coursera as your portal to free courses from esteemed universities worldwide. Their free introductory coding courses are sourced from reputable institutions like the University of Toronto, the University of Edinburgh, and Stanford, with many courses available in multiple languages. You can engage with Coursera courses for free or, where applicable, pay a fee for a verified certificate upon completion.
7. Dip Your Toes with an Hour of Code
Code.org, a non-profit organization, aims to broaden participation in computer science by increasing its accessibility. Launched in 2013, they’ve already engaged 59 million students globally in an hour of coding, conducted in classrooms, at events, and independently at home or work. Their courses, designed with younger audiences in mind, feature games and animated lessons. It’s an excellent platform to experience coding without extensive commitments. If you’re uncertain about the benefits of coding, give one of their courses a try. Beyond their introductory course, Code.org offers courses in JavaScript, Python, game coding, and more.
Coding: A Potential Asset for Marketers
While basic coding skills undoubtedly enhance your understanding of challenges faced by your team and projects, you might even surprise yourself by making edits, building websites, or even developing apps. Who knows, you might even discover a hidden passion! Do you have a favorite free coding resource? Feel free to share it with others in the comments below.