Time to Learn Linux? Try (Free) Online edX
Almost twenty-three years ago Linus Torvalds posted his now famous email to a newsgroup. The young developer merely stated “I’m doing a (free) operating system (just a hobby, won’t be big and professional like gnu) for 386 (486) AT clones” and asked what people liked or disliked about the MINIX computer operating system since, as he put it, “my OS resembles it somewhat.”
Of course, the “hobby” Torvalds was working on was the Linux kernel, and today the Linux open source operating system is the most widely used OS in the world. Which means, there is a growing—some might say skyrocketing—demand for qualified Linux professionals.
If you’re wondering about options to explore and learn more about Linux, the Linux Foundation has announced it is building a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) program with edX, the nonprofit online learning platform launched in 2012 by Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). According to the announcement from the Linux Foundation, “Previously a $2,400 course, Introduction to Linux will be the first class available as a MOOC and will be free to anyone, anywhere.”
Be aware that the course is tailored toward experienced computer users with “limited or no previous exposure to Linux.” The course, expected to be available during the third quarter of 2014, is estimated to take anywhere from forty to sixty hours to cover the material. Those taking the course are encouraged to try for a certificate, but there is an option to audit the course and still have access to all course materials, tests, and the online discussion forum.
IDG News Service quotes Linux Foundation’s director Jim Zemlin as saying, “Linux has just seen this insane adoption across every sector of technology. That's all great but as use of Linux rises we need to keep up with demand. This is a way for people to get familiar with Linux."
And, the great thing about this endeavor is that the edX education experience is collaborative and free—just like Linux.
