Getting Started

Welcome to the course! Here, you'll embark on a structured journey to become a well-rounded developer, progressing from the very basics of programming to building complex applications. The course is organised into five key modules:

1. Introduction to Programming
   This module is designed for beginners, introducing you to the fundamental principles of programming using JavaScript. You’ll learn how to write code by breaking down tasks into simple, logical steps. Concepts such as variables, functions, loops, and data structures are covered, providing you with a strong grounding in programming. JavaScript’s versatility makes it an ideal language for learning, as it’s widely used in web development and beyond.

2. Foundations
   In the Foundations module, you'll get hands-on with essential tools and technologies every developer needs. You’ll set up your development environment, learn to navigate the command line, and use Git for version control. This module also covers the basics of HTML and CSS, the building blocks of any web application, as well as the Document Object Model (DOM), which allows JavaScript to interact with and modify web content. By the end, you’ll have a solid technical foundation for creating structured, styled web pages and managing your projects efficiently.

3. Building Blocks
   Building Blocks introduces you to more advanced programming concepts and starts to bring JavaScript into your web development skills. Here, you’ll deepen your understanding of JavaScript, covering topics like conditionals, loops, and functions in more depth. You’ll also begin working with the DOM to create interactive web pages. By the end of this module, you’ll be able to build dynamic applications and develop more complex programs that respond to user input and events.

4. Backend
   In the Backend module, you’ll learn to create and manage the server-side of applications. Using Node.js, you’ll explore how backend development works, covering topics like APIs, databases, and server setup. You’ll learn to handle requests and responses, manage data, and build server-side logic that supports the functionality of your applications. This module also includes database fundamentals, helping you store and retrieve information in ways that can scale with your application’s needs.

5. Frontend
   The Frontend module introduces you to React, one of the most popular frameworks for building user interfaces. You’ll learn about components, state management, event handling, and how to interact with APIs to fetch data. Later in the module, you’ll also work on real-world project scenarios, such as building a property search engine, where you’ll apply your skills in routing, controlled inputs, and authentication. This module will bring together everything you’ve learned to create polished, interactive applications that users can engage with.

Throughout this course, you’ll gain practical experience with each module’s concepts and tools, building projects that put theory into practice. Learning programming can be challenging, but it’s entirely normal if things don’t make sense right away. Take your time, revisit concepts, and trust the process – it will all come together as you progress. You are part of a community of likeminded learners - don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

Happy coding, and enjoy the journey!