Developing Back-End Apps with Node.js and Express

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/developing-backend-apps-with-nodejs-and-express

Introduction

### Course Review: Developing Back-End Apps with Node.js and Express on Coursera If you're considering venturing into back-end development, look no further than the **Developing Back-End Apps with Node.js and Express** course on Coursera. With Node.js being the most popular server-side technology and Express emerging as a leading web framework, this course equips you with essential skills that are currently in high demand among developers. #### Overview The course dives deep into using Node.js and Express, two critical components for any modern web developer. As highlighted by a recent Stack Overflow survey, approximately 50% of developers are using Node.js, signifying its relevance in the industry. Express, ranking as one of the top web frameworks, reinforces the need for mastering these tools. This course is not just an introduction; it’s a comprehensive guide towards becoming proficient in back-end application development. #### What You Will Learn 1. **Introduction to Server-Side JavaScript:** The course begins with an introductory module that explores how JavaScript is utilized on the server side. You'll learn about Node.js, its capabilities, and how to utilize Node Package Manager (NPM) to import external modules. The hands-on experience of building a simple web server ensures that you get a firm grounding in practical skills. 2. **Asynchronous I/O with Callback Programming:** A major highlight of this course is its emphasis on asynchronous programming—a core aspect of Node.js. You’ll dive into how Node.js operates non-blockingly, and grasp concepts surrounding callback functions. The insights provided will be invaluable for optimizing performance and efficiently handling network calls. 3. **Express Web Application Framework:** As the course progresses, you’ll get your hands dirty with Express. It’s an essential framework that streamlines server-side coding. You will create an HTTP server and explore concepts such as routing, middleware, and template rendering—skills that are crucial for modern web applications. The focus on implementing authorization will prepare you for building secure applications. 4. **Final Project:** The course culminates in a robust final project, pushing you to apply all that you've learned. You will work on a server-side application that manages book ratings and reviews, implementing CRUD operations and authentication methods like JWT. This project not only solidifies your learning but also gives you a practical portfolio piece that you can showcase to potential employers. #### Course Structure and Learning Experience The course is well-structured, combining theoretical elements and practical applications seamlessly. Each module builds upon the previous one, ensuring a comprehensive learning curve. Additionally, the peer review aspect of the final project fosters an engaging community environment, allowing you to gain insights from fellow learners. #### Recommendations I highly recommend this course to anyone looking to enhance their back-end development skills. Whether you are a beginner familiar with JavaScript or an intermediate developer aiming to deepen your knowledge in server-side technologies, this course is tailored to meet your learning goals. The hands-on projects, along with the opportunity to engage with peers, provide a rich learning experience that is both practical and enjoyable. In conclusion, **Developing Back-End Apps with Node.js and Express** isn't just about learning technologies; it's about becoming an adept back-end developer capable of building modern web applications. Enroll now on Coursera and unlock the potential of your coding abilities!

Syllabus

Introduction to Server-Side JavaScript

You may already be familiar with JavaScript, but did you know there is a server-side JavaScript framework? Discover how Node.js is used on the back end to develop rich, dynamic web applications by importing external modules and using node package manager (NPM). Get hands-on experience using Node.js to build your own simple web server.

How can you optimize processor time with Node.js? Discover how Node.js operates in a non-blocking manner and how to handle the result from a network call. Explore the advantages and challenges associated with using anonymous callback functions. Use Node.js to parse JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) data from a Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) message.

When you use Node.js to build a hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) server, you will discover that the default Node.js framework is low-level. You can extend its features with third-party packages such as Express. Get hands-on experience with the Express web application framework by creating a web server that listens to incoming requests. You also learn how to implement authorization with Express. Use routing, middleware, and template rendering to extend the Node.js framework and handle dynamic content.

In this module, you will complete two related projects: a practice project and a final project. The practice project walks you through code that performs CRUD operations for given user details on an Express server using session and JWT authentication and then tests the code using Postman. For the final project, you assume the role of a back-end developer working on a server-side application that stores, retrieves, and manages book ratings and reviews. You will submit screenshots of your application, and then your peers will review the project based on a rubric provided. You will also be expected to review two of your peer’s projects.