Back-End Developer Capstone

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/back-end-developer-capstone

Introduction

### Course Review: Back-End Developer Capstone on Coursera #### Overview The **Back-End Developer Capstone** course on Coursera is a culminating project that allows students to synthesize their learning by tackling a real-world problem through the lens of full-stack back-end development. This course is ideal for learners who wish to apply their theoretical knowledge in building a practical project, focusing primarily on creating a Django web app backed by a MySQL database. This hands-on experience not only bolsters your coding skills but also enhances your understanding of the software development lifecycle, user authentication, and API design and testing. Each module in the course builds upon previous knowledge, effectively bridging gaps and ensuring you not only learn to code but understand the architecture and security behind sustainable web applications. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Starting the Project**: - This opening module immerses you in the Django framework, offering a chance to work hands-on. You will familiarize yourself with the tools and environments necessary for back-end development. 2. **Project Functionality**: - In this segment, you dive deeper into database interactions, particularly through Django's Models. You'll set up a MySQL connection and establish the web app's database schema before creating robust APIs for functionalities like menu management and table bookings using the Django Rest Framework. 3. **Security and Testing**: - Security is paramount in web development, and this module underscores that importance by introducing user authentication processes, such as registration and login. You will also engage in API security practices and unit testing methodologies, ensuring your application is both functional and secure. The added layer of using a tool like Insomnia for testing reinforces your understanding of RESTful services. Finally, you'll learn to document and version your project on GitHub, a critical skill in collaborative and open-source environments. 4. **Project Assessment**: - The final module features peer assessments, enabling you to compare your project with those of your peers, facilitating a collaborative learning environment. Here, you’ll confront challenges, reflect on your learning journey, and prepare for the next steps in your coding career—whether that involves pursuing further projects, refining your skills, or diving into job applications. #### Review The Back-End Developer Capstone course is exceptionally well-structured, providing a seamless transition from theory to practice. One of the key highlights is the emphasis on real-world scenarios, making students feel like they are developing an actual product. This course not only tests your coding skills but also your ability to think critically and solve problems—a vital trait for any developer. The inclusion of peer reviews adds a layer of community engagement that is often missing in online courses. It encourages collaboration and offers insights from fellow learners, which can be incredibly beneficial for personal growth and learning. Moreover, the variety of topics covered, from database management to API security and testing, ensures that learners leave with a comprehensive skill set that is applicable in today’s job market. #### Recommendation I highly recommend the Back-End Developer Capstone for anyone looking to solidify their back-end development skills, especially those specifically interested in the Django framework and MySQL. Whether you are a beginner with programming fundamentals or someone with some experience seeking to enhance your portfolio, this capstone project will provide you with both the technical skills and the confidence needed to tackle real-world development challenges. Engaging in this course is an investment in your future, preparing you effectively for positions in software development, back-end engineering, or full-stack roles. With the mentorship and collaboration provided by this capstone, you’ll emerge with a significant project to showcase, reinforcing your résumé and portfolio for potential employers. Take the plunge and embark on your learning journey with the Back-End Developer Capstone on Coursera—you won’t regret it!

Syllabus

Starting the Project

In this module, you will get practical hands-on experience using the Django web framework.

In this module, you will revise Models. You will revisit the concepts of working with databases and models in Django. You will set up the MySQL connection, and create the required models for the web application. Then, you will build the menu and table booking APIs using the Django Rest Framework.

In this module, you'll focus on user authentication and testing the API. You will revisit the concepts to help you secure your app and APIs. You will add user authentication by setting up user registration, login and logout functionality. Then you will implement the code to secure the table booking API. Next, you will test your application code using unit testing and test the API endpoints using the Insomnia REST client. Finally, you will push your commits to GitHub.

In this module, you will be assessed on the fundamental skills covered as you build the capstone project's functionality. You'll have a chance to compare your code and your designs with your peers via a peer review and you'll have the opportunity to work through a solution to some of the most challenging parts of the capstone project. At the end of this module, you'll complete a graded assessment, reflect on your learning and be guided to the next steps in your coding journey.