LinkedIn Learning is an excellent platform for learning new skills like JavaScript. With a vast library of courses taught by industry experts, LinkedIn Learning makes it easy to learn JavaScript at your own pace. In this article, we’ll look at the key factors to consider when learning JavaScript on LinkedIn Learning.
What is JavaScript?
JavaScript is a programming language used to create interactive effects within web browsers. JavaScript code is run client-side, meaning it is executed by the browser rather than on the web server. This allows web pages to respond to user interaction, validate forms, change content, load new pages, set cookies and more. JavaScript is used on the majority of websites, including most major social media, ecommerce and search engine platforms. Understanding JavaScript is a highly valuable skill for front-end web developers.
Benefits of Learning JavaScript
Here are some of the main benefits of learning JavaScript:
– In demand skill – JavaScript is one of the most in-demand programming languages. Having JavaScript skills greatly improves employability for development roles.
– Front-end focus – JavaScript is used primarily for front-end web development. This means you can focus specifically on the visual interface and interactivity.
– Versatile uses – JavaScript has expanded beyond the browser. It can now be used for back-end development, mobile apps, IoT devices and more.
– Payscale – The average salary for JavaScript developers is $72,000 USD according to Payscale. Popular JavaScript frameworks like React and Node.js can command even higher salaries.
– Large community – JavaScript has a large and active developer community, making it easy to find tutorials, documentation and support.
LinkedIn Learning for JavaScript
LinkedIn Learning has a broad selection of JavaScript courses including:
– JavaScript Essential Training – A thorough introduction to JavaScript fundamentals.
– Modern JavaScript – Covers modern syntax, asynchronous coding and newer features.
– JavaScript and the DOM – Focuses on using JavaScript to manipulate the DOM.
– React.js Essential Training – The most popular JavaScript framework for building user interfaces.
– Node.js Essential Training – Enables server-side JavaScript development.
– jQuery Essential Training – The popular JavaScript library for DOM manipulation and events.
Benefits of LinkedIn Learning
Here are some of the main benefits of using LinkedIn Learning to learn JavaScript:
– Expert instructors – Courses are taught by experienced web developers.
– Video format – Lessons are presented through video tutorials, ideal for visual learners.
– Certificates – Earn a certificate to showcase your new skills.
– Mobile access – Download courses to watch offline from your phone or tablet.
– Progress tracking – Monitor your learning progress and completion rate.
– Supplementary resources – Courses include coding exercises, quizzes and other resources.
– Up-to-date content – Courses are continually updated with new information.
Course Options for Learning JavaScript
The best starting point is the JavaScript Essential Training course. This comprehensive course covers:
– Core language syntax
– Variables, data types and operators
– Statements, arrays, loops and functions
– DOM manipulation
– Events
– Form validation and submission
– Ajax
– jQuery
After the essentials, you can branch out into specialized topic areas like:
– Framework courses – React, Angular, Vue.js
– Node.js for back-end development
– ES6 – Modern JavaScript syntax
– APIs – Working with third-party APIs like Twitter or Google Maps
– D3.js – Data visualization and charting
– Game development – Constructing games with Canvas and WebGL
– Machine learning – JavaScript libraries for ML like TensorFlow.js
There are also role-specific courses like JavaScript for Web Designers that focus on relevant tasks.
Creating a Learning Path
With hundreds of courses available, it can be challenging to identify the optimal learning path. Here are some tips:
– Start with JavaScript Essential Training to build a solid foundation.
– Learn complementary technologies like HTML and CSS.
– Decide which framework you want to specialize in – React, Angular etc.
– Supplement courses with external resources like documentation and tutorials.
– Practice by recreating examples and building your own mini-projects.
– Get feedback by sharing your code on GitHub or with other developers.
Focus your learning on the types of projects and roles you’re interested in. For example, taking Node.js courses if you want to work on back-end development.
Integrating LinkedIn Learning with Other Resources
While LinkedIn Learning has extremely comprehensive JavaScript courses, additional resources can provide:
– Coding exercises – Sites like freeCodeCamp have interactive coding challenges.
– Project ideas – Coding practice by creating your own apps and websites.
– Community support – Developer forums to get help debugging code issues.
– Documentation – Official framework and library docs for syntax reference.
– Tutorials – Articles and videos with tips and examples for building specific features.
Some excellent external resources include:
– freeCodeCamp
– Codecademy
– MDN Web Docs
– YouTube coding channels
– Stack Overflow
– GitHub open source projects
– JavaScript meetup groups
Use LinkedIn Learning courses to learn the concepts and syntax. Then apply your skills through projects and exercises on complementary learning platforms.
Completing a LinkedIn Learning Path
Here is a step-by-step process for completing a JavaScript learning path on LinkedIn Learning:
1. Sign up for a LinkedIn Learning subscription either individually or through your company.
2. Take the JavaScript Essential Training course to build core knowledge.
3. Determine your area of specialization – frameworks, front-end, back-end etc.
4. Take advanced courses in your specialization along with key complementary courses.
5. Create your own projects using what you learn in the courses.
6. Participate in LinkedIn Learning Q&A and discussions to connect with other students.
7. Earn a certificate for each course you complete and add them to your LinkedIn profile.
8. Continue learning by expanding into additional topic areas as needed.
9. Practice coding regularly through freeCodeCamp, Project Euler or personal projects.
10. Follow JavaScript news sites and blogs to stay on top of the latest developments.
With consistent practice, you can become a capable JavaScript developer by working through the learning paths on LinkedIn Learning.
How Long Does it Take to Learn JavaScript?
The time required to learn JavaScript depends on:
– Previous coding experience – Beginners will need longer than experienced developers.
– Learning style – Self-paced online vs. bootcamps or classes.
– Study time – Are you learning part-time or full-time?
– Course focus – Core language vs. specialized frameworks.
On average it takes 2-6 months to become proficient with basic JavaScript skills. Here is an approximate timeline:
| Timeline | Learning Focus |
|---|---|
| Month 1 | JavaScript fundamentals |
| Months 2-3 | DOM manipulation, events, APIs |
| Months 4-6 | Advanced features, frameworks |
With consistent, focused practice such as completing one LinkedIn Learning Path, you can learn the essential JavaScript skills within 6 months. Ongoing learning will be required as features and frameworks continue to evolve.
Tips for Learning JavaScript Effectively
Here are some key tips to learn JavaScript in the most effective way:
– Code every day – Regular practice is critical to becoming a good JavaScript developer.
– Build projects – Apply your skills by building web apps and other projects.
– Take breaks – Allow time for the knowledge to sink in by taking breaks from coding.
– Ask questions – Use Stack Overflow and other forums to get help.
– Read code – Study open source JavaScript projects on GitHub.
– Debug carefully – Don’t gloss over errors, take time to understand why they occur.
– Pair program – Team up with other learners to code together.
– Explain concepts – Confirm your understanding by explaining things in your own words.
– Learn keyboard shortcuts – Improves coding efficiency and speed.
– Review often – Re-read notes, documentation and code to reinforce retention.
– Attend meetups – Connect with the local web development community.
– Do the exercises – Complete coding challenges and assignments included in courses.
Choosing the Right Courses
With hundreds of JavaScript courses on LinkedIn Learning, it can be difficult to identify the right ones for your needs. Here are some tips for selecting the best courses:
– Check course ratings and reviews – See what other students have said about the quality and value of the course.
– Match course focus to your goals – For example, React.js courses for front-end development.
– Confirm the instructor’s credentials – Choose courses taught by experienced JavaScript developers.
– Check the course length – Look for comprehensive courses of 8+ hours, not just 1-2 hour introductions.
– Ensure recent publication – JavaScript changes rapidly, so choose recently updated courses.
– Consider your skill level – Beginner to advanced courses are available.
– Check for exercise files – Practice by working through hands-on coding activities.
– Read the course description – Assess if the course covers what you need to learn.
By carefully evaluating courses, you can create a custom learning path tailored to your specific JavaScript learning goals.
Conclusion
In summary, LinkedIn Learning provides excellent JavaScript courses for developers of all skill levels. The video-based format is highly effective for visual learners. Complement LinkedIn Learning courses by practicing with projects and exercises. On average, it takes 2-6 months of consistent practice to become proficient in JavaScript. Choosing the right courses based on your goals and experience level is key. With its combination of expert instructors, up-to-date content and hands-on exercises, LinkedIn Learning is an excellent choice for learning JavaScript skills. The global community and course certificates also help you stand out when applying for JavaScript development roles.
