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3. Learning / Education / Training

This section provides first step resources for those first learning about the field of front-end development as well as resources for those committed to becoming a professional.

3.1 — Initial Steps​

Before committing long term to a subscription, certification, or a formal education, one should investigate the field of front-end development.

Here are several free resources to consume to get a sense of the technologies, tools, and scope of knowledge required to work as a front-end developer/engineer:

3.2 — On Demand Courses​

On-demand courses are ideal for those who prefer to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. They are also a great way to supplement other learning methods, such as in-person classes or self-study.

  • Frontend Masters:
    • Description: Frontend Masters is a specialized learning platform focusing primarily on web development. It has courses and learning paths on all the most important front-end and fullstack technologies.
    • Target Audience: Primarily aimed at professional web developers and those looking to deepen their understanding of front-end technologies. The content ranges from beginner to advanced levels.
    • Key Features: Offers workshops and courses taught by industry experts, provides learning paths, and includes access to a community of developers. The platform is known for its high-quality, detailed courses on all the key technologies and aspects of front-end development.
  • Code Academy:
    • Description: Codecademy is a popular online learning platform that offers interactive courses on a wide range of programming languages and technology topics, including web development, data science, and more.
    • Target Audience: Suitable for beginners and intermediate learners who prefer a more interactive, hands-on approach to learning coding skills.
    • Key Features: Known for its interactive coding environment where learners can practice code directly in the browser. Offers structured learning paths, projects, and quizzes to reinforce learning.
  • LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com):
    • Description: LinkedIn Learning provides a broad array of courses covering various topics, including web development, graphic design, business, and more. It integrates with the LinkedIn platform, offering personalized course recommendations.
    • Target Audience: Ideal for professionals looking to expand their skill set in various areas, not just limited to web development.
    • Key Features: Offers video-based courses with a more general approach to professional development. Learners get course recommendations based on their LinkedIn profile, and completed courses can be added to their LinkedIn profile.
  • O'Reilly Learning (formerly Safari Books Online):
    • Description: O'Reilly Learning is a comprehensive learning platform offering books, videos, live online training, and interactive learning experiences on a wide range of technology and business topics.
    • Target Audience: Suitable for professionals and students in the technology and business sectors who are looking for in-depth material and resources.
    • Key Features: Extensive library of books and videos from O'Reilly Media and other publishers, live online training sessions, and case studies. Known for its vast collection of resources and in-depth content.

3.3 — Certifications & Learning Paths​

Certifications and learning paths are ideal for those who prefer a more structured curriculum or are looking to gain a more formal qualification. Note that certifications in front-end development aren't taken as seriously as they are in other industries and professions, but they can still be valuable for demonstrating knowledge and skills.

3.4 — University/College Educations​

In the realm of higher education, front-end development is typically encompassed within more extensive academic disciplines. Majors such as Computer Science, Information Technology, and Web Development often integrate front-end development as a vital component of their curriculum.