Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/cobol-programming-vscode
In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, programming languages come and go, but some remain crucial to the backbone of many business operations. One such language is COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language). Without a doubt, ‘COBOL Programming with VSCode’ on Coursera, taught by Professor Tak Auyeung from American River College, is an excellent choice for those looking to delve into this robust language.
When I first started this course, I was drawn in by Professor Auyeung’s assertion that, ‘A programming language is not a fashion statement.’ This resonates especially today, as businesses are desperately in need of developers who can maintain and enhance legacy applications written in COBOL.
The course is structured as an introductory module, which is perfect for beginners. It provides a solid foundation, covering the structure of COBOL programs and essential programming concepts such as data types, variable handling, and intrinsic functions. Each section is meticulously crafted, allowing learners to grasp not just the syntax of COBOL, but also its practical applications in integrating and enhancing existing systems.
One standout aspect of this course is its relevance to the current job market. Professor Auyeung emphasizes the significance of COBOL in modern development practices, showing that learning this language can open up numerous career opportunities. Many large corporations still rely on COBOL for their critical systems, which means that proficient developers in this language are always in demand.
The syllabus includes:
– **COBOL Basics**: Introduction to the COBOL environment, syntax, and basic commands.
– **COBOL Structure and Cross-Program Communication**: Understanding how to structure COBOL programs and manage communication between programs.
– **Defining and Manipulating COBOL Data Names/Types**: In-depth exploration of data types and how to effectively manipulate variables.
Throughout the course, the use of Visual Studio Code as a development environment not only makes the learning process more enjoyable but also familiarizes students with a modern, versatile tool used in the industry today. This choice makes the COBOL programming experience feel more current, bridging the gap between traditional programming and modern practices.
Overall, if you’re a novice eager to learn COBOL and enhance your skills for potential job prospects, I wholeheartedly recommend the ‘COBOL Programming with VSCode’ course on Coursera. It strikes the perfect balance between foundational knowledge and practical applications, ensuring that you come away not just with theory, but with the ability to implement your skills in real-world scenarios.
The future may be leaning towards newer programming languages, but COBOL’s stability and continued relevance highlight the importance of this course.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/cobol-programming-vscode