React is known for its reusable templates, and it’s worth learning if you’re working with websites or apps. You can use a handful of training formats to learn these skills—some of them may be familiar to you, while others might seem brand new. In either case, plenty of options are available for those who desire to take their React knowledge to the next level. This guide will help you identify the perks and drawbacks of each training format.

What is React?

React is a JavaScript library that allows new user interface (UI) components to appear on websites and apps without reloading the page. Jordan Walke, a Software Engineer at Meta, created it to make Facebook’s News Feed load faster. It was later added to Instagram and became open-source for the benefit of the public. Now it’s one of the go-to JavaScript libraries for most websites and apps. Most people use React in web and mobile development because of its flexibility, versatility, and ability to save computer power. 

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

What Can You Do with React Skills?

React is known for its uses with social media news feeds, but you can use it for any online page constantly loading new components on-screen. React libraries are meant to save time by creating templates, allowing them to create reusable interactive elements without needing to access the server constantly. If you have aspirations to build websites or apps or work for a company that relies on them, React is an essential skill. With React in your professional toolkit, you’ll be an asset to any web or mobile development team you join.

Why Training Format Matters

You might be unsure which format to choose, and that’s perfectly normal. Most people tend to lean towards options that are familiar to them, but there are plenty of other choices that might enhance your learning in the long run. Our learning preferences change as we progress through our lives, and you likely have more responsibilities now than you did in school. Take some time to consider how these training formats can coincide with your schedule and see which one lines up the best. 

Types of Training Formats

The main training formats people use are in-person, live online, on-demand, and free courses. Each has its own perks and drawbacks, and the best one for you mostly depends on your stage in life and your circumstances. 

Live In-Person Classes

Live in-person classes are usually what comes to mind for most people when they think about training. Besides its familiarity, the main perk of this format is that you’re provided with a distraction-free environment and any supplies you may need to foster your learning. You’ll also have the opportunity to network with peers with similar interests. The main drawback is that you’ll need to arrive at a physical location to take these classes, which means you’ll also need to factor your commute into your schedule and budget. 

Live Online Classes

Live online classes are increasing in popularity because they feature the same instructors you would have for in-person courses. They also serve as practice for interacting with people online, which is becoming increasingly important in today’s global businesses. You may have people in the class from all over the country or world simply because you can take these classes anywhere you have an internet connection. You’ll need to get your own technology to take these classes, but many online training facilities have tech support that can assist you before and during your course. 

On-Demand Classes

On-demand classes are popular for people who want to learn a new skill but can’t fit courses into their schedules. As their name implies, you can take these courses anytime if you can access them. Some training centers offer on-demand training to help their students jumpstart their education while making room in their schedule. The main drawback of these courses is that they’re usually pre-recorded, which means they have a chance to be outdated. Double check the date of the on-demand courses you find, and when in doubt, talk to the training facility to see if the information presented on them is still accurate. 

Free Courses

Free courses often fall under on-demand classes, but you can find live courses that showcase some of the fundamentals of their topics. For example, Noble Desktop often live streams introductory courses on their YouTube channel and website, including a free Intro to React seminar. During that time, you can interact with the instructor to ask questions and clarify certain topics. Once they’ve concluded, the videos are saved and become on-demand courses available to the public. The main drawback of free courses is that they almost always cover the fundamentals, and you’ll want to join a paid course to learn more advanced topics. 

Depth of Training Formats

Besides the training formats mentioned above, there are also three different styles of courses: introductory courses, training bootcamps, and certificate programs. 

Introductory Courses

You’ll want to start with the fundamentals when learning a new skill. Introductory courses take many forms, but some of the most common ones are free and on-demand. It’s a good idea to look at some courses in this training format to test the waters and see if the topic’s worth pursuing you. Most people find introductory courses useful when planning their careers and notice some skills that will help them in the long run. 

Regarding React, the Intro to JavaScript on-demand course teaches you the fundamentals of JavaScript’s coding language, which will help you create React programs. Meanwhile, the Intro to React on-demand course covers how React works and what you can do with it. When you’re ready to work with an instructor, you can sign up for React classes that fit your needs. 

Training Bootcamps

Bootcamps are good for those who want to learn a new skill from a professional in the field. They’re useful for filling a skill gap or helping you acquire new skills relevant to your career. Most bootcamps can be completed quickly compared to certificate programs, but they go more in-depth than an introductory course would. If you plan to take things to the next level but aren’t ready to commit to a certificate program, bootcamps are the way to go. 

JavaScript is an important skill to know in its own right, and it’s essential to anything that involves React. For that reason, a JavaScript Programming Bootcamp is a good starting point. Once you’re comfortable with JavaScript, learning React will feel simpler than it would otherwise. That will prepare you for the React Development Bootcamp, which will take your JavaScript foundation and use its tools to work with React projects. With that knowledge, you’ll be one step closer to accomplishing your goals. 

Certificate Programs

Certificate programs are ideal for those who want to learn a collection of skills related to one topic. They’re a step up from bootcamps because many certificate programs include bootcamp classes in their curriculum. The benefit of taking them through a certificate program is that you’ll receive the same education at a reduced rate. Plus, you don’t have to worry about mapping out your classes once you’ve finished one course since certificate programs are a collection of classes that focus on a particular set of skills. 

If you plan to learn React, the JavaScript Development Certificate program is an excellent choice. This program is a deep dive into JavaScript, which will help you become more familiar with the language used to create React programs. There’s also the Software Engineering Certificate program, which includes React courses but also covers technical skills in other areas. If you want to expand your skill set beyond JavaScript, this certificate program will help make your resume more diverse. 

Learn React Skills with Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop has plenty of resources to help you through your React learning journey, including courses and bootcamps to help you land that dream job. These programs feature many benefits, including expert instructors, small class sizes, and free retake options. A few notable options are the React Development Bootcamp, JavaScript Development Certificate, and, if you prefer using React for websites, Full Stack Web Development Certificate. If you’re not ready to commit to a program, you can look through the React courses available. 

You can also learn more about React through Noble Desktop’s React Learn Hub guides.

Key Insights

• The primary training formats are in-person, live online, on-demand, and free classes. 
• In-person classes are good if you can commute to and from the physical location to learn.
• Live online classes are best for those who want to learn a new skill from anywhere in the world.
• On-demand courses are a solid choice for anyone ready to start learning a new skill but still rearranging their schedule. 
• Free classes are ideal for those who are starting their education and want to test the waters before committing to a paid course. 
• You can take a comprehensive React training course through Noble Desktop, either in-person or live online.