{"id":494,"date":"2021-12-23T20:57:46","date_gmt":"2021-12-23T20:57:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.computerscience.org\/?p=494"},"modified":"2022-09-12T16:30:41","modified_gmt":"2022-09-12T16:30:41","slug":"c-education-resources","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.computerscience.org\/resources\/c-sharp\/","title":{"rendered":"C# Education & Resources"},"content":{"rendered":"

C# (pronounced C Sharp) is a powerful language that offers solutions to several small and large business development needs. Some would argue that it\u2019s one of the most valuable programming languages to learn. According to the PYPL Popularity of Programming Language Index, which identifies how often a tutorial for a particular coding language is searched on Google, the interest in C# continues to grow. Additionally, compared to other coding languages, it\u2019s relatively simple and easy to learn, making it a top choice for aspiring and even senior developers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

But where does one start when he or she wants to learn this language? With so many options now available, it can be overwhelming. In this guide, aspiring C# programmers will find the answer to that question and more. Provided are resources on how and where to learn C# as well as an overview of various learning options, from coding games to college degrees. Whether you\u2019re new to the game or a longtime developer, this guide covers the essentials of the C# coding language.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

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Understanding C#, Visual C#, and .NET<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Students might hear developers use the terms .NET and C# interchangeably. However, .NET is the framework for both C# and VB.NET, whereas C# is the language. When a developer starts an application, he or she can choose the language but will always use the .NET framework\u2019s libraries throughout the code. One of the most difficult parts of learning the C# language is the .NET framework libraries \u2014 they\u2019re large and there are hundreds of methods and resources within the platform.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Another common mix up is C# and Visual C#. While these two are similar in some ways, they do have different implementations. C# refers to the language for developing within Visual Studio. Visual C#, on the other hand, refers to the development interface provided by Microsoft. Visual C# is the IDE used in Microsoft\u2019s Visual Studio software, which is the foundation for developers to create their applications. It offers numerous tools to build web-based and desktop applications. It includes a debugger, the development IDE, integration with a database (usually Microsoft\u2019s SQL Server), and a testing platform. Students can download Visual Studio Express for free from Microsoft\u2019s website. As a matter of fact, students need the Visual Studio<\/a> software before they can get started with C# development, so it\u2019s recommended that students download and install it before they begin the learning process.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

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Top Online Programs<\/h2>\n

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.<\/p>\n <\/sonic-editorial-listings>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Uses and Benefits of C#<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Each language in the coding world has its own benefits and pitfalls. C# is a versatile language, so students can dive into almost any type of application environment without too many limitations. One limitation, however, is that .NET is a Microsoft framework so students should want to work with Windows platforms if it\u2019s the language they learn. This means Windows desktops, servers, and cloud environments are needed for their applications.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

C# and the Cloud<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The most common use for C# is cloud applications. The cloud is overtaking desktop environments because of its reliability, security, stability, and scalability. As a result, understanding C# in the cloud is a must for most coders and is often a recommended starting point for new developers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

There are two types of cloud applications \u2014 apps for end users and apps for other developers. Cloud applications for end users are similar to desktop software, except the client uses a web browser to work with the application. Cloud applications are similar to building websites, except instead of building something such as an ecommerce or content site, the programmer builds tools for customers. Windows-based companies use C# developers to build internal cloud applications. These applications usually tie in with a public-facing application, so students need to understand the business as well as the customer base.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

APIs (application programming interfaces) are cloud components that plug in to other developer applications. For instance, Twitter has an API that lets developers display tweets in their own application. C# developers often refer to C# APIs as web services or WCF services.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Server Applications<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

C# is also used in server applications. If students work with automation, C# allows them to create Windows services, which are programs that run in the background of a machine. Students can also write Windows services for regular desktops, but most professional C# developers use services as an automation tool for servers. For example, if a student wants to automate an import of emails every five minutes, they can use C# to manage this task.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Desktop Applications<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Desktop applications are the last common use for C#. These applications, however, aren\u2019t as popular as they were a decade ago. Software development is moving towards the cloud and cloud-based infrastructure, which makes desktop development much less attractive for programmers. Cloud applications can be run from anywhere in the world, whereas desktop applications coded in C# can only run on Windows machines.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Nonetheless, students may still run into desktop applications from time to time as a developer, so it\u2019s good for a C# developer to have general knowledge about the way they work. Occasionally, an organization might have a C# developer create a custom tool or application that runs on internal Windows client machines.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Distinguishing Features<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

While C is the foundation for the C# language, C is not an object-oriented programming language. C is used for embedded systems and low-level programming, whereas C# is a higher level programming language. Some .NET framework libraries include low level options for hardware and software components, but programmers wouldn\u2019t use C# for something such as device driver creation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

C++ is another option, but it\u2019s considered a more difficult language to use. It\u2019s also not convenient for web applications. While a programmer could write C++ services to run on a web server, it\u2019s not meant for cloud applications like C#. C# is an out-of-the-box cloud platform language that makes it easy to create browser-based apps.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The most similar language to C# is Java. The languages are so similar that students can use the same class names and methods between both languages. If students learn one language, learning the other will likely take very little time.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The main difference between C# and Java is the libraries. Students must also learn a different IDE. Most Java developers use Eclipse while C# developers need Visual Studio. As a matter of fact, students must use Visual Studio with C#, but they have several options with Java. However, Visual Studio is far more programmer-friendly and makes it much easier to learn the language.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Coding Language Comparisons<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n <\/tr>\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n
<\/th>\r\n C#<\/th>\r\n C<\/th>\r\n C++<\/th>\r\n Java<\/th>\r\n <\/tr>\r\n <\/thead>\r\n
Level of difficulty<\/td>\r\n Difficult<\/td>\r\n Intermediate<\/td>\r\n Difficult<\/td>\r\n Intermediate<\/td>\r\n <\/tr>\r\n
Object-Oriented<\/td>\r\n \"Yes\"\r\n <\/td>\r\n \"No\"\r\n <\/td>\r\n \"Yes\"\r\n <\/td>\r\n \"Yes\"\r\n <\/td>\r\n <\/tr>\r\n
Used for cloud apps<\/td>\r\n \"Yes\"\r\n <\/td>\r\n \"No\"\r\n <\/td>\r\n \"No\"\r\n <\/td>\r\n \"Yes\"\r\n <\/td>\r\n <\/tr>\r\n <\/tbody>\r\n <\/table>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

How and Where to Learn C#<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The Internet has opened up several learning paths for aspiring software developers. Twenty years ago, the only way to learn a coding language would have been to go to college, but now aspiring and new coders can learn any programming language, including C#, in a number of different ways. Below is a breakdown of some of those options:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Colleges and Universities<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Going to college is probably the first option that comes to mind when one decides to learn C# or any other coding language. Most aspiring software developers pursue degrees in computer science<\/a>, computer information science, or computer engineering. A degree program can be a great option, as it prepares students for not only software development careers, but also provides a well-rounded education. Additionally, some employers require software engineers and developers<\/a> to hold a degree in computer science or a related field. While it isn\u2019t always required, a college degree can help open the doors to a greater variety of programming careers including junior, intermediate, and senior level C# positions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Developers with a college degree have a competitive edge, but this route is also the most expensive and time-consuming. The typical minimum is four years, and it could take longer if the student can only attend part time due to other commitments.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Another drawback with a degree program is that most focus more on theory than application. Some schools don\u2019t even offer C# as a language option. C, C++, and Java are more prominent in academia, so be sure to research course curriculum before choosing to attend college<\/a> for C#.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

For the aspiring programmer, pursing a CS degree is ideal if he or she wants a well-rounded education in science and engineering and not just language syntax. If students have the time and financial backing to make the commitment, it can be well worth the effort.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Online Tutorials<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

For aspiring developers who want to focus on learning one language, another option is online tutorials. This option is ideal for current developers who want to learn a new language or someone interested in simply testing the waters. Online tutorials alone cannot lead to a career as an engineer, but they do provide valuable hands-on learning for C# and its syntax.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Most people search Google for online coding<\/a> tutorials, but it can be difficult to know which ones are good or bad. It\u2019s also easy to browse blogs and dedicated programmer sites for general references that cover C# concepts, but these aren\u2019t always ideal for learning a new language. Websites don\u2019t take the student step-by-step through the process or focus on building a foundation for learning. For instance, sites such as Stack Overflow<\/a> teach students how to work through problems, but they don\u2019t offer the learning environment necessary to build skills with the language.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

There are, however, some great online tutorials that give students a solid foundation for C#. What\u2019s great about these tutorials is that the student can learn at his or her own pace. He or she can go through them as quickly or slowly as needed and also take the time to revisit tutorials that may be more challenging to ensure he or she fully understands the material.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Below are a few sites that provide quality online tutorials for aspiring and novice C# coders. All of these sites allow users to sign up for access to free versions. Users can also explore their libraries without paying for a subscription.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Pluralsight<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Pluralsight is a well known online tutorial site specifically for developers. They offer other learning courses, but it\u2019s mainly marketed as an environment for IT and software developers. Several companies offer free Pluralsight access through corporate accounts because it benefits them to continually educate their employees.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Lynda<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Lynda is similar to Pluralsight, but it offers more general tutorials. In other words, it doesn\u2019t only focus on software development. Lynda offers development and web design courses, but it also offers video, 3D animation, education, business, and photography. If the student wants to learn more than just C#, Lynda is a great option.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

TutsPlus<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

TutsPlus is a newer online tutorial site. It\u2019s owned by the popular Envato company, which is a place for coders to sell their scripts, designs, and animations. TutsPlus was made by independent developers who like to share information. TutsPlus users can find several online tutorials for free, so this option is ideal for aspiring C# developers on a budget.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Coding Bootcamps<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Coding bootcamps are focused, classroom-oriented learning environments. They are also a fast-paced \u2013 but intense \u2013 alternative to a CS degree. In coding bootcamp, students receive a crash course on C# and can fully immerse themselves in learning it without any other distractions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The similarity between code bootcamps and a CS degree program is the instructor-based benefits. Both bootcamps and a computer science degree give students the ability to ask the instructor questions for immediate feedback, which some students may prefer.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Although bootcamps are much shorter than a degree, it doesn\u2019t mean they don\u2019t require a lot of time, effort, and commitment. Bootcamps are intense, consisting of long days for several weeks. These courses are meant for the student who wants to learn everything about the C# language quickly and through hands-on experience.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

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