How to Learn Java Online

If you’re starting to learn a new skill, you can find dozens of tips and resources online; learning Java is no different.You may want to learn Java if you are interested in becoming a Software Developer, Web Developer, Mobile App Developer, Data Scientist, Game Designer, User Experience Designer, or Laboratory Scientist. Java is a desirable language in many professions because of its portable and adaptable nature. If you’ve always wanted to learn Java, there are plenty of options at your fingertips. From free tutorials to live classes, your options are outlined here so you can decide how to learn in a way that works best for you. 

What is Java?

Java is both an object-oriented programming language and a software platform in itself. Its creators designed it as a “write once, run anywhere” tool. It is portable, scalable, and adaptable. An app created in Java can function across multiple platforms and over distributed networks. This flexibility makes the Java language widely useful and Java coders highly desirable to employers. Professions that use Java include Web Developer, Mobile App Developer, User Experience Designer, Data Scientist, Game Designer, and Laboratory Scientist.

Java’s modular nature allows developers to take existing pieces of code that are useful to them and then combine those modules in a new context for a new purpose. Also, programs in Java do not need to be compiled because the virtual Java Runtime Environment tool interprets the code and translates it for the computer you are using. Java’s portable and adaptable nature allows it to serve a wide range of use cases. For this reason, it has become the chosen tool of key players in the technology space: for example, the Android operating system is based on Java code. In addition to being critical for mobile app development, Java is also a crucial skill for Web Developers. It is also used for data science, game design, user experience design, and scientific applications. Many employers are eager to hire Java coders because the language is highly flexible, with many possible use cases and adaptations to new contexts.

Read more about what Java is and why you should learn it. 

What Can You Do with Java?

Knowing Java means you can code across multiple operating systems and hardware architectures without modifying your programs for a new environment. Because it is an object-oriented programming language, Java allows you to create modular units of code that you can reuse in any Java program, even across platforms and environments. You can quickly adapt code created for one use case to apply in another, as Java is highly flexible and adaptable for novel contexts. So as exciting new technologies arise, your knowledge of Java will remain relevant and desirable to employers.

Using Java also speeds up the development cycle. This is due to its unique interpretation process, which allows developers to sidestep much of the routine testing and debugging necessary when coding in other programming languages. You can use the Java Runtime Environment to keep your applications robust with its automatic memory management. The JRE also supports robust graphic interfaces through multithreading. Another advantage is that its built-in virus and tamper protection keeps your code secure.

With Java, you can build mobile applications for the Android platform and, in some cases, for iOs. If you’re into big data, you can use Java to analyze large datasets with open-source tools like Hadoop and Spark. Java’s “write once, run anywhere” functionality makes it perfect for writing cloud-based applications and powering data collection within them. Though machine learning is typically associated with Python, libraries such as Deep Learning for Java and MLib make it easy to take advantage of Java’s speed and security by providing a stable environment for deep learning or machine learning processes. Another great application for Java is programming smart household devices. Java is also useful for game design, both mobile and desktop. 

Live Online Java Training

Virtual training is increasingly popular today. Live online instruction gives a student the advantage of working directly with an instructor without commuting. You can still ask questions and get feedback in real time. Some students may also find it easier to concentrate when doing online learning from home. However, others may feel the lack of social interaction that comes with in-person learning. Online learning can also come with logistical difficulties, as technical problems may hinder the student’s consistent access. However, depending on your schedule, it may be worth dealing with some possible technical issues if it means saving time. Another consideration is that you will have to use your own computer to pursue online learning. However, this creates fewer issues when learning a programming language than if you were studying a skill like graphic design that required running a large, complex application.

If this option is right for you, you can take a live online Java bootcamp through Noble Desktop from anywhere. The program holds classes on a weekend basis, meaning many students can learn while maintaining their current schedules. You can also search for other live online Java courses from providers like ONLC Training Centers, Code Fellows, and NextGen Bootcamp. 

On-Demand Java Classes

Some students prefer to learn using on-demand Java courses. The advantage of on-demand Java training is that it is much easier to fit into a busy schedule. Not only does it not require a commute, but you can do it whenever you have time. However, using on-demand materials for your study of Java means you don’t have access to a live instructor, so you won’t get the benefit of clarification and feedback from an expert when you have a question. On-demand courses also require more self-discipline, as students must keep themselves on track in their studies. If you’re confident you can stay focused and work with a busy schedule, studying Java in a self-paced format may be the right fit.

For those starting out, a free self-paced course might be a good option for learning the basics. You can find free introductory Java courses on Udemy, Coursera, and Udacity, among other providers. However, if you’re looking to go beyond the basics, you’ll probably want to invest in a paid course. With a platform subscription, you could learn intermediate Java using Skillshare or discover how to build simple Android apps on Codecademy. There are many options out there for learning Java skills on-demand.

Free Intro Courses & Tutorials

If you’re not ready to take on an entire course yet, you can still discover the world of Java through the many free online resources available. Udemy offers a free introductory course for absolute beginners. They also have free tutorials on specialized topics, like integrating Java with MySQL, that you might want to check out later in your Java studies. The free Introduction to Java course on Coursera will take you through the operators and syntax you’ll need to write simple Java code. Udacity and freeCodeCamp each offer several free Java courses, including beginner programs. Free courses are a good option for students to learn the basics of Java, but if you want to delve deeper, you’ll likely benefit from making a financial investment in your studies.

Read about more free Java videos and online tutorials. 

Comparing Online Methods with In-Person Learning 

In-person, live online, and on-demand Java training all have their advantages. Real-time classes, such as in-person and live online, are more engaging because they are interactive. Working directly with an instructor allows you to ask questions as they arise, receive feedback on your work, and get guidance when building projects for your portfolio. Interacting with peers is another benefit of real-time training. A live class also imposes deadlines and a structure that can help you organize your time as you pursue your studies.

Those who thrive on social interaction will particularly benefit from in-person training and the networking opportunities it offers. With in-person training, you can avoid potential logistical complications from technical difficulties. Schools also often provide up-to-date equipment for students to use in their learning.

Live online training provides access for those who do not live near a major metropolitan area or cannot devote time to a commute. It can also be advantageous for those who focus best at home, perhaps finding social interaction distracting. However, others might miss the stimulation of in-person group learning. Learning online also means you’ll need to provide your own equipment, and technical difficulties may sometimes interrupt the process.

On-demand learning is generally the most affordable option, making it a good way to learn the basics. It can also be a better fit for those with a busy schedule. However, those who choose a self-paced course do not get the benefit of clarification, feedback, and guidance from a live instructor. Also, on-demand materials are sometimes outdated, especially after a Java update is released, which happens about every six months. 

Tips to Succeed when Learning Java Online

Learning Java online can be challenging, especially if you choose an option that doesn’t provide the support of live instruction. However, if you do choose to learn Java online, there are several smart moves you can make that will facilitate your learning process. For the most effective online learning, try these tips.

• Start with the basic concepts: You’ll want to learn what object-oriented programming is and what makes it different from other types of coding. Then you should familiarize yourself with Java's basic functions, data types, and classes. This will help prepare you to tackle its tricky syntax. 
• Practice: As with any other skill, the more frequent, sustained, and regular your practice is, the more quickly you’ll learn. With on-demand courses, you’ll need to make sure you set a study schedule, as you won’t have the regular class meetings and deadlines provided by a live instruction format.
• Join a study group: If you can’t take a class in person, you can still find camaraderie and support from your fellow learners through a virtual study group. Forming a group can also help you stay motivated by reinforcing your study and practice schedule.
• Find a mentor: Connecting with someone who has advanced Java skills will ease your studies by giving you someone to ask questions and consult for feedback. If you pursue an on-demand course, you won’t have a live instructor to be your expert, so finding a mentor to give you Java advice will be vital. Fortunately, there are many knowledgeable people out there in the Java community.
• Join the community: Java has a lively, supportive international community of coders. In fact, about 10 million developers worldwide use Java. There are many active forums that you can use to ask questions about Java. The Java community is also an excellent place to find study group members or a mentor.
• Use the free resources: The Java community has created quite a few free frameworks and libraries that you can use to build your code more efficiently. You can find many of the most popular ones on the open-source Apache Commons site.
• Do your reading: You can enhance your learning if you spend some time reading about coding topics. Books and blogs are both good resources for this. Oracle, the developer of Java, has a Java blog that you may find helpful. However, it’s important to balance theoretical research with hands-on practice.
• Learn by doing: While reading about relevant concepts is helpful, if you want to learn how to do something in Java, the best approach is to try. When watching a video tutorial, make sure you’re coding along with it. That will be the best way to take in the information.
• Find a project you want to create: Coming up with a specific goal can help motivate you to practice and give you a reason to build practical skills. If you envision an app you’d like to construct using Java, working on it and learning the skills you’ll need to create it will be a good way to focus your studies.
• Patience: The most important quality you can bring to your studies is patience. Sometimes you’ll hit a snag, but patience will help you push through those moments of confusion or frustration. If you have the patience to keep going, your online study of Java will be successful.

Learn Java with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers several options for studying Java. Its small class sizes and expert instructors make for an ideal learning environment. And if you want to enhance your knowledge further, you can always retake the class—for free. With both in-person and live online options available, you can learn Java in whichever way best fits your needs.

Noble’s Java bootcamp is a great way to learn Java quickly and well. You can do the bootcamp either in-person or live online. This program teaches practical Java skills and the computer science principles that form the foundation of Java’s effectiveness. The course covers object-oriented programming, recursion, and data structures. You’ll also discover the secrets of the interpretation process that streamlines the creation of a new program in Java. By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to pass the Java SE 11 Programmer 1 Exam, helping you qualify for entry-level coding positions. In addition to the bootcamp, some of Noble’s other coding classes also include instruction in Java.

High school and college students can take summer Java classes through NextGen Bootcamp, Noble’s partner school. For those who can attend an in-person program in New York City, NextGen offers a Java programming summer camp. This 50-hour course culminates in each student creating a final project in Java, which they can include in their portfolio when applying for computer science programs. The camp also gives students a head start preparing for their AP Computer Science exam. Students who can’t make it to NYC have another option: NextGen’s live online summer Java program. Though different in the delivery method, this course offers the same content, final project, and exam preparation as the in-person course. 

Key Insights

• Java is an object-oriented programming language and a software platform
• With Java, you can code across platforms and environments
• You can learn Java in-person, live online, or on-demand
• Keys to success with Java include:
• Starting with the basics
• Practicing faithfully
• Joining a study group
• Finding a mentor
• Joining the Java community
• Using the free frameworks and libraries
• Reading about coding topics
• Learning by doing
• Finding a project you want to create
• Being patient
• You can receive comprehensive Java training through an in-person or live online course with Noble Desktop