BackOnline resources to help upskill your creativity
When it comes to working in the creative industries, it's important to keep your finger on the pulse, no matter how new or experienced you are to a career in graphic design. Fast-changing technology and consequent emerging trends mean we all have to stay ahead of the curve.
At Shillington, we aim to give our students the best possible start and encourage them to upskill wherever possible. And we advise that they continue to learn, way after graduation. Here, we share 10 of the best websites to help upskill your own creativity, so you reach your full potential.
1. Codecademy
Join millions of others who are learning how to code thanks to Codecademy. Along with a thriving and supportive community, you'll benefit from a structured curriculum, coding quizzes and lots more to ensure you learn how to programme in no time.
2. Lynda.com
A classic but a favourite, Lynda.com has over 600 courses in software development. From visual basic essential training to understanding databases and Java, you can sign up and get the first month free. We especially love the "Learning Paths" where you can pick your dream career – like web developer – and Lynda.com will guide you through a wealth of its courses.
3. General Assembly
Get ahead with expert-led training in coding, data, digital marketing and much more – both online and on campus in various locations across the globe. We love the regular livestream classes where you can tune in for free and learn more about your chosen subject.
4. Google Analytics Academy
If you're going to work with websites, then you'll need to know how to analyse web traffic. And that's why we always recommend Google Analytics Academy and its free online courses. Get your head around the basic features of this superb analytics tool and then develop your skills and expertise further through the more complex analysis and marketing tools.
5. Jellyfish Training
Jellyfish Training offers professional digital classroom and online training courses to help you boost your skill set way beyond graphic design. So if you've always wanted to improve your copywriting or figure out the fundamentals behind Google Adwords, now's your chance to do so. Many of the classes are available in packages, such as the SEO & Social bundle.
6. SuperHi
If you're always dreamt of being a web designer, SuperHi can give you everything you need to create well-designed digital projects that you have full control over. No templates, no dull lessons, that's a promise. Aside from all the fantastic online courses, there's also a super helpful Learn to Code Now book, if you want to understand HTML, CSS and Javascript without all the usual jargon and heavy text.
7. Facebook Blueprint
To become an expert with Facebook, you'll need to know everything from its API and advertising to monetisation options and Instagram stories. It's a huge platform and one that you'll no doubt get to grips with once you've ploughed your way through some of these excellent online courses. Even better, you can earn official Facebook certifications and badges with its Blueprint exams.
8. Upskill
Learn to code for free, that's the statement from Upskill, another highly recommended website. We particularly like the "Essential Web Developer" course where you'll learn how to build full-stack web apps using modern tools like HTML, CSS, Javascript and Ruby on Rails. With nothing to pay, what's stopping you?
9. Skillcrush
Even if you're completely new to web development, Skillcrush is an online coding school that can teach you the digital skills you need to break into the tech industry. Dip your toe in the water with its free 10-day bootcamp, a beginner-friendly introduction to "tech, techies and kick-ass careers in less than five minutes a day".
10. Shutterstock Tips & Tutorials
The tips and advice just keep on coming thanks to Shutterstock's informative blog. The stock photography platform shares insider tricks on just about anything – from how to create a 3D logo mockup to photography tips on creating authentic lifestyle shots. A great all-rounder when you're looking to boost your overall creativity.
Ref: www.creativeboom.com