From the basics to the advanced
Topics
1. Electricity and Electronics
Electricity and Electronics are two subjects that are the foundation of anything to do with computing technology. While it is not necessary to understand these subjects in detail, it is important to know the basics. This course will introduce you to the basic principles and concepts of these subjects. This is a simple start to your learning journey.
2. Computer Hardware
It is useful to know the basic hardware components that make up a computer and what purpose they serve. Computing hardware is now taking forms other than the traditional computer, such as smart phones. You will learn about microcontrollers and single-board computers which are fully functional yet simple enough to learn and build solutions quickly.
3. Computer Networks
Computing devices today rarely work on their own. To provide really useful and powerful solutions they connect, exchange data and communicate with each other, creating what are known as computer networks. In this course, you will learn about the basics of computer networks and the devices and protocols that are used to build networks.
4. Computer Programming
The science of writing instructions for computing devices is known as computer programming. It ranges from writing small sets of instructions for your microcontroller circuits to developing complex web and mobile applications. In this course, you will learn how to logically define and write instructions in a form that computing devices will understand.
5. App Development
Applications are software programs that do some specific tasks for users. They have multiple components, mainly a user interface that accepts inputs from and displays information to users, a processing component that runs the business logic, and a component to store data. There are several different types of applications but we will focus on web and mobile apps.
6. Databases
Almost every application works with data. Data can be in the form of text, numbers, images, and videos. Applications receive data, process it, display it to users, or take some actions based on the data. In many applications, this data needs to be stored for a long time for future reference and action. The software solution that is used to store and manage data is referred to as a Database.
7. Microcontrollers
Microcontrollers are small computers meant for specific tasks. Microcontrollers have similar compoments and need to be programmed just like computers. Versions of microcontrollers like the Arduino and Raspberry Pi boards are easy to use and program and are perfect for hobbyists and students to learn the concepts and build simple Physical Computing or IoT solutions.
8. Physical Computing
When we think of computing solutions, we think of humans interacting with computing devices. Physical Computing is the future of computing solutions where not only humans but also non-computing devices will interact with computing devices, and with each other. These solutions use microcontrollers, sensors, relays, and actuators and are the basis for the Internet of Things.
9. Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is a revolutionary concept that makes it possible for physical machines and applications to be available on the Internet through a solution known as virtualization. This allows to build your applications faster and cheaper without needing to invest in any hardware. In this course you will learn about the types of Cloud Computing services.
10. Internet of Things
Just like computing devices, physical computing solutions too are more useful when connected over a network. This network of connected solutions forms the Internet of Things. In this course, you will learn how to build IoT solutions that work across distant locations and how they can use cloud services to exchange data and be controlled remotely.
11. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning solutions are quite complex. With the evolution of technology and the advent of cloud computing, powerful algorithms can be integrated with our solutions without much effort. In this course, you will learn about some of the more commonly used algorithms and how you can integrate them into your solutions.
12. Blockchain
Blockchain is a complex technology that allows you to build decentralized and highly secure transaction systems in domains such as banking and logistics. Blockchain solutions are further enhanced by deploying autonomous, rule-based, event-driven programs known as Smart Contracts, developed in a programming language called Solidity.
13. Augmented/Virtual Reality
AR and VR are complementary technologies, using which you can build solutions that bridge the digital and physical worlds. With AR, using specialized devices you can combine digital elements with real-world elements around you. With VR, you can create a whole digital world that simulates the real world, allowing you to experience real-world elements without actually having to be physical in that space.
14. 3D Printing
3D printers controlled by computers create physical models of things using specific materials. 3D printing technology is a combination of computing technology and the science of materials. 3D printers, previously available only for specialized use, are now available at a lower cost for more common use. In this course, you will learn the concepts of 3D printing and some of its applications.
15. UAVs/Drones
Aeronautical engineering generally focused on complex commercial and military aircraft, that are meant for transporting humans and cargo and need expert handling. Today, there are much simpler forms of aircraft referred to as UAVs or Drones that do not carry humans and are controlled remotely from the ground using radio signals. In this course, you will learn the principles of flight and the structure of drones.