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Introduction to Mobile Development

Taught by Meta Staff

If you want to become a mobile developer, this course is a good place to start. You will learn about the day-to-day responsibilities of web and mobile developers and get a general understanding of the core and underlying technologies that power the internet.

You’ll be introduced to core technologies like HTML and CSS, and get opportunities to practice using them.

In this course, you will also discover the unique world of cross-platform mobile applications (apps). Explore the various benefits of using a system like React Native to build mobile apps and get an opportunity to practice the basics.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Mobile Applications
Learn the basic principles of mobile app development using a cross-platform solution.
Introduction to HTML and CSS
In this module, you will learn how to construct html documents and add basic styling and layout using CSS.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Starts you off with basic and core principles, which makes it suitable for complete beginners
Exposes you to practical tools and skills for mobile development
Taught by instructors who work at Meta, who are at the forefront of industry practices
Provides the foundational knowledge and skills to build mobile apps and websites

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Reviews summary

Foundational mobile development with react native

According to learners, this course is a solid starting point for aspiring mobile developers, particularly those new to programming. Many appreciate the clear introduction to core web technologies like HTML and CSS, which provides a foundational understanding. The section on React Native is highlighted as a valuable first step into cross-platform development, though some wish for more depth. While the course successfully achieves its introductory goals, a few students mentioned challenges with environment setup and a desire for more advanced content for those beyond beginner level. Overall, it's considered a well-structured and accessible pathway into mobile development.
Evidence of ongoing course maintenance and content updates.
"I noticed recent updates to the React Native module, which is great as the tech evolves quickly."
"It's reassuring to see the course content being refreshed, showing commitment from the publishers."
"The most recent cohort seems to have fewer setup issues, possibly due to updated instructions."
Course pace and content are well-suited for absolute novices.
"As a complete beginner, I found the pace of this course perfect; it never felt overwhelming."
"This course is truly an introduction; it builds up knowledge step by step, which was great for me."
"If you have no prior coding experience, this is the course for you. It simplifies everything."
A good first look at React Native, but limited in depth.
"The React Native part gave me just enough to get excited about mobile app development."
"I appreciate the exposure to React Native; it’s a powerful tool, though I wish there was more advanced content."
"It's a decent start to React Native, but be prepared to seek out other resources for deeper learning."
Provides a clear and practical introduction to HTML and CSS.
"The HTML and CSS modules were surprisingly thorough and very helpful for someone with no prior web experience."
"I found the foundational lessons on HTML and CSS to be exceptionally clear and easy to follow, making complex topics digestible."
"This course really solidified my understanding of how web pages are structured and styled, a critical skill for mobile."
Some learners faced difficulties configuring their development environment.
"Getting the development environment set up for React Native was the most challenging part for me, took a lot of troubleshooting."
"The instructions for local machine setup could be clearer; I spent hours resolving installation issues."
"Be prepared for some technical hurdles when setting up your dev tools; it wasn't as smooth as expected."
Focuses on fundamentals, not advanced topics or native development.
"Don't expect to be a mobile dev expert after this; it's strictly foundational and cross-platform."
"The course does not cover native iOS or Android development, which might be a drawback for some."
"While good for basics, I felt the React Native section could have gone a bit deeper into real-world applications."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Mobile Development with these activities:
Review basic computer science concepts
Ensure a strong foundation by refreshing your knowledge of basic computer science concepts.
Browse courses on Computer Science Fundamentals
Show steps
  • Read articles or blog posts on basic computer science concepts
  • Review your notes from previous computer science courses
  • Take practice quizzes or exams
Code challenges
Develop your HTML, CSS, React, and React Native skills through solving coding challenges
Browse courses on CSS
Show steps
  • Find a coding challenge website or platform
  • Practice solving code challenges regularly
  • Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement
Build a simple mobile app
Develop your mobile development skills by building a basic app from start to finish.
Browse courses on Mobile App Development
Show steps
  • Choose a simple app idea
  • Design the app UI
  • Implement the app logic
  • Test and debug the app
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Join a study group or online forum
Connect with other students and exchange knowledge and ideas through a study group or online forum.
Show steps
  • Find a study group or online forum
  • Participate regularly in discussions and activities
  • Help other members of the group
Build a portfolio project
Solidify your understanding of React Native and full-stack development by building a portfolio project
Browse courses on React Native
Show steps
  • Choose a project idea that aligns with your interests and goals
  • Design and plan your project architecture
  • Develop the front-end and back-end of your project
  • Deploy your project and make it accessible online
  • Showcase your project on your portfolio website or GitHub profile
Create a presentation on mobile app development
Deepen your understanding of mobile app development by researching and presenting on a specific topic.
Browse courses on Mobile App Development
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your presentation
  • Research your topic and gather information
  • Create your presentation slides
  • Practice your presentation
Volunteer for a mobile app development project
Gain practical experience and contribute to a real-world mobile app development project.
Browse courses on Mobile App Development
Show steps
  • Find a volunteer opportunity
  • Contact the organization and express your interest
  • Contribute to the project and learn from experienced developers

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Mobile Development will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Mobile Developer
Mobile Developers design and develop mobile apps. They work with a variety of technologies, including Java, Swift, and Kotlin. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Mobile Developers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them design and develop mobile apps that are successful and meet user needs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mobile Developer
Full-Stack Developer
Full Stack Developers design and develop both the front-end and back-end of websites and applications. They work with a variety of technologies, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, and Python. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Full Stack Developers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them design and develop websites and applications that are responsive and work well on mobile devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Full-Stack Developer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They work with a variety of technologies, including Java, Python, and C++. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Software Engineers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them design and develop mobile apps that are efficient and reliable.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
UX Designer
UX Designers design the user experience of websites and applications. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and users. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for UX Designers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them design mobile apps that are easy to use and meet user needs.
See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites. They work with a variety of technologies, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Web Developers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them design and develop websites that are responsive and work well on mobile devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
UI Designer
UI Designers design the user interface of websites and applications. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and users. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for UI Designers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them design mobile apps that are visually appealing and easy to use.
See salaries and explore the career path for UI Designer
Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and executing projects. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and clients. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Project Managers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them manage mobile app development projects successfully.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and marketers. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Product Managers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them make decisions about which mobile apps to develop and how to market them.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Software Tester
Software Testers are responsible for testing software to ensure that it works as expected. They use a variety of techniques, including manual testing, automated testing, and performance testing. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Software Testers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them test mobile apps more effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Tester
Software Architect
Software Architects design and build the overall structure of software systems. They make sure that systems are efficient, reliable, and scalable. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Software Architects because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them design and build mobile apps that are successful and meet user needs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists research and develop new computer technologies. They work with a variety of technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer graphics. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Computer Scientists because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them develop new technologies that can be used in mobile apps.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create documentation for software and other technical products. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and users. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Technical Writers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them create documentation that is accurate and easy to understand.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make better decisions. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and business leaders. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Data Analysts because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them collect and analyze data from mobile apps.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
DevOps Engineer
DevOps Engineers work to bridge the gap between development and operations. They help to ensure that software is deployed and maintained smoothly and efficiently. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for DevOps Engineers because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them work with development teams to deploy and maintain mobile apps.
See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer
Business Analyst
Business Analysts work with businesses to identify and solve problems. They use a variety of techniques, including data analysis, process mapping, and interviewing. A course like Introduction to Mobile Development can be helpful for Business Analysts because it can help them understand the principles of mobile app development. This knowledge can help them identify and solve problems related to mobile apps.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Mobile Development.
Cover image
Head First JavaScript Programming
Save
Provides a beginner-friendly introduction to HTML and CSS, which are core technologies covered in the course. It uses a visual and interactive approach to teach the basics of web development.
Head First JavaScript Programming
Paperback
Check
Head First JavaScript Programming
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Learning React Native
Save
Serves as a practical guide to building mobile applications using React Native. It focuses on building real-world projects and provides hands-on exercises for learners to practice.
Learning React Native: Building Native Mobile Apps...
Paperback
$$
Learning React Native: Building Native Mobile Apps...
Paperback
$$
Learning React Native: Building Native Mobile Apps...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Road to Firebase
Save
Provides a thorough introduction to React, a JavaScript library used for building user interfaces. While it is not directly related to React Native, understanding React is beneficial for those interested in mobile development using React Native.
The Road to Firebase: Your journey to master...
Paperback
$$
The Road to Firebase: Your journey to master...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Professional Mobile Application Development
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of mobile application development, covering topics such as design, development, testing, and deployment. It offers insights into the industry best practices and the latest trends in mobile development.
Professional Mobile Application Development
Paperback
Check
Professional Mobile Application Development
Kindle Edition
Check
Android Programming
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to Android programming, covering topics such as app development, user interface design, and data management. While it is not directly related to React Native, understanding Android programming concepts can be beneficial for those interested in mobile development.
Android Programming
Paperback
Check
Android Programming
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Creating Mobile Apps with Xamarin.Forms Preview...
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to cross-platform development using Xamarin.Forms, a framework for building native mobile applications using C#. While it is not directly related to React Native, understanding cross-platform development concepts can be beneficial for learners.
Creating Mobile Apps with Xamarin.Forms Preview...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Java For Dummies
Save
Provides a beginner-friendly introduction to Flutter, a framework for building native mobile applications using Dart. While it is not directly related to React Native, understanding Flutter concepts can be beneficial for those interested in mobile development.
Java For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))
Paperback
$$
Beginning Programming with Java For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Art of Unit Testing, Third Edition
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to unit testing, a software development practice that helps ensure the quality and reliability of code. While it is not directly related to React Native, understanding unit testing concepts can be beneficial for software developers in general.
The Art of Unit Testing, Third Edition: with...
Paperback
$$
The Art of Unit Testing, Third Edition: with...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study, 3-5 hours/week.
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Meta
Instructor
Taught by Meta Staff
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch العربية Ελληνικά magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Introduction to Mobile Development belongs to the following collections:
  1. Meta React Native
  2. Meta React Native
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Starts you off with basic and core principles, which makes it suitable for complete beginners
Exposes you to practical tools and skills for mobile development
Taught by instructors who work at Meta, who are at the forefront of industry practices
Provides the foundational knowledge and skills to build mobile apps and websites
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