Top Online Courses for Learning Clojure and ClojureScript for Beginners

Buffing up on your coding skills? Looking to dive into the world of functional programming with Clojure and ClojureScript? Fortunately, there are numerous online courses tailored for beginners, each offering unique benefits and teaching methods. In this article, we will explore some of the best online courses that can help you get started on your journey with Clojure and ClojureScript.

1. Clojure for the Brave and True

Clojure for the Brave and True is a highly recommended free online book that is a fantastic starting point for beginners. Unlike some technical literature, this book is known for its accessibility and engaging style. With an emphasis on practical examples, it covers the essential concepts of Clojure in a manner that makes the learning process enjoyable and straightforward. Ideal for those who prefer a more narrative and thematic approach to learning, this book provides valuable insights that can help you grasp the fundamentals of this powerful programming language.

2. ClojureScript for Beginners

ClojureScript for Beginners on Udemy is a dedicated course that focuses on ClojureScript, the dialect of Clojure used in web development. This course provides a solid foundation in functional programming and covers how to integrate with React and build web applications. For those interested in developing web applications with ClojureScript, this course is an excellent choice as it offers comprehensive coverage of the language in the context of web development.

3. ClojureScript: Up and Running

O'Reilly provides a detailed course named ClojureScript: Up and Running. This course is geared towards beginners and offers a thorough introduction to ClojureScript, including its syntax, features, and practical applications. If you already have access to the O’Reilly platform, this course is a valuable resource that can help you build a strong understanding of the language and its applications in real-world scenarios.

4. Clojure Training

Clojure Training offers a range of beginner-friendly courses designed to help you learn Clojure through practical applications and real-world scenarios. Their courses are structured to provide hands-on learning, making it easier to understand and apply what you have learned in a professional setting. This is particularly useful for those who want to see the immediate relevance of the concepts they are learning.

5. Exercism

Exercism, although not a traditional course, is a fantastic resource for Clojure learners. By offering Clojure exercises, it allows you to practice coding and receive feedback from mentors. This interactive approach is highly effective in reinforcing your understanding of the language and improving your coding skills. Exercism is perfect for hands-on learners who want to solve problems and see the results of their work in real-time.

Additional Resources

Coursera occasionally offers courses on functional programming that may include Clojure as part of their curriculum. Keeping an eye on these platforms for new offerings can be beneficial, especially if you are looking for structured and formal courses.

YouTube is another treasure trove of free video tutorials. Many programming channels have playlists dedicated to Clojure and ClojureScript, making it a great resource for visual learners. You can find a wide range of video content that covers the basics of these languages and more advanced topics.

Choosing the Right Course

When selecting a course, consider your preferred learning style. If you respond well to structured lessons, formal courses on platforms like Udemy or Pluralsight may be a good fit. If you prefer to learn by doing, Exercism and YouTube tutorials can be excellent choices. Additionally, if you are interested in specific applications, such as web development with ClojureScript, courses like those provided by Udemy or Pluralsight can offer targeted training.

TuitionSafe: Additional Suggestions

For those interested in a more formal education, here are some additional suggestions from TuitionSafe:

Clojure Fundamentals - Part 1 – Provider: Pluralsight, Price: $299/year Clojure Concurrency – Provider: Pluralsight, Price: $299/year Building Microservices with Clojure – Provider: Udemy, Price: $50

These courses, while more expensive, can offer in-depth knowledge and practical experience that can be invaluable for your professional development. They are particularly useful if you have a specific goal in mind, such as building microservices or improving your concurrency skills.

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From TuitionSafe, we recommend the following advanced courses:

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Conclusion

There are numerous paths to learning Clojure and ClojureScript, and the right course depends on your learning style and goals. By exploring the options available, you can find the perfect course to help you start programming with Clojure and ClojureScript. Whether you choose a free online book, a hands-on practice course, or a structured formal course, you are on your way to becoming a proficient Clojure or ClojureScript developer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Clojure and ClojureScript?

Clojure is a modern, dialect of Lisp designed for general-purpose, multi-paradigm programming, with a strong focus on simplicity and functional programming. ClojureScript, also a Lisp dialect, is a dialect of Clojure compiled to JavaScript, making it suitable for web application development with tools like React.

Why should I learn Clojure or ClojureScript?

If you are interested in functional programming, want to build robust backend applications, or are looking to use the same language for both your front-end and back-end development, Clojure and ClojureScript can provide a lot of value. These languages offer a unique approach to problem-solving and can help you write more concise and efficient code.

Are there any prerequisites before starting to learn Clojure and ClojureScript?

If you are already familiar with functional programming concepts, you will have an easier time getting started with Clojure and ClojureScript. However, if you are new to programming, you can still start with these languages as they do not have a steep learning curve. It is also helpful to have some basic knowledge of web development or software development in general, depending on your goal.