Java Learning Topics 2018
In autumn 2018, JetBrains polled over 1,500 Java developers worldwide to identify their learning patterns and preferences. Here's what we’ve found.
In addition to survey results and insights, we’ve added some learning recommendations from experienced JetBrainers. May the drive to learn be with you!
Ekaterina Tuzova
Product Manager for Data Science IDE,
Team Lead in Edu Tools at JetBrains
Methodology
We distributed the survey via targeted ads on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn and via company channels (panel respondents and the @intellijidea account in Twitter). We collected 400 complete and valid responses from the US, Germany, and UK via different advertising. The rest of the respondents were recruited from other countries via company channels.
Some bias is likely present because JetBrains users may have been more willing on average to complete the survey in advertising channels, and because we’ve included JetBrains followers in the sample.
The raw survey data are available for your perusal.
Key Takeaways
is the most frequently used second language among Java developers.
of Java developers use an IDE as their most frequently used development tool.
of Java developers are intending to move to a new industry.
Programming languages
Coding games for beginners and advanced programmers on CheckiO are a great way to improve your JavaScript or Python skills!
Ekaterina Tuzova
Product Manager for Data Science IDE,
Team Lead in Edu Tools at JetBrains
Ekaterina Tuzova
Product Manager for Data Science IDE,
Team Lead in Edu Tools at JetBrains
Kotlin Koans
The Kotlin Koans course is a series of exercises specially designed to get you familiar with the Kotlin syntax.
Atomic Kotlin
Atomic Kotlin is the EAP book that explains Kotlin to both novices and experienced programmers with no prior Java experience required. The book is accompanied by the course – a set of code examples and small tasks with automatic checking and available answers.
Kotlin for Java Developers
The Coursera course for experienced Java developers who want to learn the intricacies of Kotlin and its differences from Java. The course includes programming assignments to be solved using JetBrains Educational Products.
Java Background
Working Environment
Learning patterns
Skills and Knowledge
Demography
What country do you live in?
Number of answers: 1361
21%Germany
13%United States
8%Poland
7%United Kingdom
7%Ukraine
4%Canada
3%Russia
2%Italy
2%Czech Republic
2%France
30%Others
JetBrains Academy
Begin a unique educational experience.
Ekaterina Tuzova
Product Manager for Data Science IDE,
Team Lead in Edu Tools at JetBrains
JetBrains Academy features a project-based Java learning platform that challenges learners to integrate computer science knowledge while completing real projects.
Ekaterina Tuzova
Product Manager for Data Science IDE,
Team Lead in Edu Tools at JetBrains
Build applications from scratch, improving them version by version as you learn more and more. Use professional tools to work on projects such as the special educational version of IntelliJ IDEA Community Edition.
Get ready to become a professional.
Learning Tips & tricks
Stay determined
Software development is an enormous area so the learning process might become tough just because of the amount of available information. Don’t take it too hard on yourself: you face difficulties because there’s so much to learn, not because you’re not smart enough. If you ever consider quitting, do it because you’re no longer interested. Otherwise, believe in yourself and keep going!
Begin with a project
I suggest to come up with a challenging project regardless of how impossible it might seem - automatic watering system, budgeting application, chatbot, etc.! An exciting task inspires you to learn and provides an excellent hands-on practice.
Self-reflect
While facing a complex topic, you might be tempted to skip it. Stay determined! Consider going through earlier themes to look for missing details. Otherwise, think about alternative solutions that may help you overcome difficulties.
Seek help
It’s always OK to ask for advice from mentors while learning computer science (and even later when working in industry). An outsider’s opinion is helpful to get around a challenge. Discussions with colleagues prompt you to come with a fresh way to fix a problem you wouldn’t beat on your own.
Play
Try educational puzzles like CheckIO, CodinGame, and others. It’s a good way to see algorithms in action—all while beating monsters and earning points.
Put together a portfolio
Every project you do is an excellent addition to the portfolio. Get familiar with version control systems and put your code out there. Your best resume is an active GitHub account.