It was just over two years ago that I started really dabbling online, researching ways that internationals like me could work from home.
I started experimenting with different ways to build a website myself (drag and drop) and though there are great platforms that make putting together a website yourself easy, I almost always came across something with code in it.
I must admit that coding looked intimidating to me and anytime I ended up on a page where there was code, I would panic and hit the back button immediately.
There was this immense fear, you know like back in the early days when people thought that hitting the wrong button on the computer keyboard would cause it to blow up.
Well, that was me when it came to coding – the wrong /, <h1>, ‘href’ or </html> and there would be computer pieces flying all over the place!
That changed the day I actively decided to understand what all this coding business is about.
I scoured the internet for information and discovered some wonderful resources to learn to code.
Here are five websites that I recommend where you can start learning to code for free:
Why Coding is the Future
“Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe, or you just want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn.”
~ Stephen Hawking
STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) is the way of the future and now more than ever, there is a need for computer engineers, software developers, programmers…the list goes on and on.
Even children are learning to code. I was surprised the first time I saw a book on coding for toddlers in a bookstore.
One of my favourite apps for pre-schoolers Kidloland, even created a program for children to learn coding while playing games, called Kidlocoding.
There are programs emerging to encourage young girls around the world to learn to code as well, such as:
Girl Develop It is a non-profit organisation that aims to empower women by providing tech-based courses in web and software development.
“Coding is the language of the future, and every girl should learn it. As I’ve learned from watching girls grow and learn in our classrooms, coding is fun, collaborative and creative.”
~ Reshma Saujani, Founder and CEO of Girls Who Code
Skillcrush is another website that offers great programs especially for women wanting to get into the tech industry.
Everything is becoming computerised and programming is at the core of the technology – from Artificial Intelligence (AI) to prosthetics and smart home appliances.
I have only just started my journey with coding and I must say, I love it! You only have to devote a small portion of your day to progress on your coding path. Actually, most of my code learning takes place while I nurse my baby.
There is freedom in being able to input and alter codes for yourself, to make changes to or improve your website, online store or blog, without having to troubleshoot it online or call for tech support.
You always have the option to take it much further and make it your career and a very lucrative one at that!
Let me know if you have any experience with learning to code.
Happy coding!
