React is a JavaScript library used for web development, and more particularly to create attractive user interfaces. This library is maintained by Meta but is open-source and freely available to anyone who wants to access it. This makes it a great library for web developers to learn on their own since there is an abundance of easily accessible resources available online.
Web Developers use React to build user interfaces (UI) for apps. For example, React was initially created to assist in streamlining the UI of Facebook’s newsfeed. Before learning React, individuals should be comfortable with the fundamentals of web development, including how to code with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
There are additional tools you may choose to learn after React, as well. This includes tools that enable Developers to work on the back end or server-side of websites. This post provides an introduction to these tools, including Node.js, Express.js, and MongoDB, as well as how to learn them.
Node.js
Node.js is a run-time environment that enables JavaScript to run server-side. This tool was released in 2009 and is free and open-sourced. Using Node.js, programmers can build server-side web applications with JavaScript. This tool is particularly useful because it means that JavaScript can be used on the back-end, rather than just the front end, where it is commonly applied. This run-time environment is used for a wide variety of purposes, including on single-page applications, social media sites, and data streaming, among other things.
Web Developers like to use Node.js because it is efficient and quick. That’s because Node.js has asynchronous request handling, so it can be used to process several requests at the same time. This run-time environment is also highly customizable, largely due to the Node Package Manager.
Express.js
If you have taken the time to learn React and Node.js, the next natural step is to learn how to use Express.js, which is a framework for Node. Web Developers can use Express.js as a framework to efficiently build web and mobile applications. This includes both single and multipage web apps.
Additionally, Express.js can be used to build APIs for web applications. This is accomplished through middleware and other features that enable Developers to manage requests. Express.js also enables users to perform HTTP requests so that they can attain information from servers.
MongoDB
MongoDB is an open-source NoSQL database that individuals, such as Data Scientists, can use to manage large amounts of data. This database program relies upon document collections, in contrast to systems like MySQL, which use tables and rows to manage data. As such, some Developers may find that MongoDB is more flexible and intuitive to use.
This flexibility can help make data management and modeling more straightforward. In other words, individuals can store or pull data in MongoDB without needing to abide by any specific schema or structure. Additionally, MongoDB enables Developers to create replica sets, which can help protect one’s data (for example, if your database server fails).
How to Learn Express.js, Node.js, and MongoDB
Because some of the tools mentioned above are open-source, some web developers may choose to learn them through self-study. This is made possible through online resources and tutorials. Individuals who choose to pursue learning these tools on their own can supplement their knowledge by visiting online forums, as well.
Some people may prefer to learn in a more structured learning environment. Those who would like to receive individualized support and feedback while learning Express.js, Node.js, or MongoDB might consider enrolling in a course through Noble Desktop. This school is based in Manhattan but offers both virtual and onsite courses.
In particular, Noble’s JavaScript Development with Express.js, Node.js, and MongoDB course enables individuals to brush up on JavaScript while also adding to their web development toolkit. This class begins with an introduction to using Node, then moves on to Express.js and MongoDB.
Wrap-Up
After learning React, there are numerous other tools you can learn to take your skills to the next level. In particular, taking the time to learn how to use Node.js, Express.js, and MongoDB can round out your JavaScript toolbelt. Each of these tools provides valuable skills that help make you more marketable to future employers.
In addition to the course mentioned above, you may also consider enrolling in Noble’s JavaScript Development Certificate. This course provides a comprehensive overview of JavaScript and related tools, including React, Node.js, Express.js, and MongoDB. In other words, this class would be great for anyone who wants to learn each of the tools discussed above all at one time. New programmers are welcome to participate in the course, though they should feel comfortable using HTML and CSS before enrolling.