Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 from Pluralsight

Scala is emerging as a popular choice for working with large datasets and frameworks such as Spark. This course focuses on functional programming construct fundamentals and moves to first class functions and higher order methods of collections.

Working with Big Data these days increasingly requires an understanding of functional programming constructs, because of how easily functional code can be distributed. In this course, Thinking Functionally in Scala, you will learn how to utilize the power of Scala's functional support, which is often hiding in plain sight. First, you will learn fundamental concepts such as the differences between statements and expressions. Next, you will start to grasp the full implications of first class functions. Finally, you will use higher order methods on collections to create chains of functional composition. When you're finished with this course, you will write clean, idiomatic Scala code that conforms to the functional paradigm, enabling you to harness the power of distributed computing to work with large datasets.

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview

Thinking Functionally with Scala's Language Constructs

Composing Functions with Expressions

Placing Functions on Par with Objects as First Class Entities

Encouraging Functional Thinking via Cleverly Designed Collections

Understanding Precisely How Scan, Fold, and Reduce Work

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches functional programming constructs fundamentals, which are used in many distributed computing applications

Focuses on Scala's first class functions and higher order methods of collections, which is a strong fit for its core audience

Taught by Vitthal Srinivasan, who are recognized for their work in Scala programming

Examines how scan, fold, and reduce work, which is highly relevant to working with Big Data

Builds a strong foundation for applying functional programming to Big Data

Develops knowledge and skills that are core for Scala programmers working with Big Data

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 Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 with these activities:

Review essential programming constructs

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Solidify your foundation in programming fundamentals to prepare for Scala's functional programming concepts.

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Revisit the concept of variables, data types, and operators.
Review control flow structures like if-else, loops, and switch statements.

Read 'Functional Programming in Scala' by Paul Chiusano and Rúnar Bjarnason

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Enhance your understanding of Scala's functional programming concepts through a comprehensive book.

View Functional Programming in Scala, Second Edition on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly, focusing on principles and examples.
Work through the exercises and challenges provided in the book.
Reflect on how the concepts apply to your own programming practice.

Volunteer as a mentor to support other Scala learners

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Strengthen your understanding while giving back by mentoring fellow Scala learners.

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Identify platforms or communities where you can offer mentorship.
Connect with learners who seek guidance and support.
Provide guidance, share resources, and answer questions.
Engage in discussions and contribute to the growth of the Scala community.

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Career center

Learners who complete Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers use data and algorithms to build intelligent systems. These roles often require an understanding of functional programming, and so the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may prove useful.

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Software Engineer

Scala is used at companies including LinkedIn, Twitter, and Airbnb. Software Engineers working at these companies may want to take the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course to maximize their potential.

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Data Architect

Data Architects design and maintain large datasets. They may need to work with functional programming constructs. Thus, the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may be useful to Data Architects.

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Software Architect

Software Architects design and maintain the high-level structure of complex software systems. As Scala is used at major tech companies, the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course can help Software Architects better utilize Scala.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts analyze large amounts of data, and may need to apply functional programming techniques to their work. The Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course can help aspiring Data Analysts prepare for this need, and may help more experienced Data Analysts advance their careers.

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Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write and maintain code. Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 may be helpful to Computer Programmers who work at companies that primarily use Scala for software development.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists are particularly knowledgeable about functional programming, and Scala is a highly popular language for such roles. For this reason, the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may be useful for aspiring Data Scientists, and may help them advance their careers.

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Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts use mathematics to help make predictions and inform financial decisions. Scala is useful in these kinds of roles, and so the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may help those seeking to work as Quantitative Analysts.

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Software Quality Assurance Analyst

Software Quality Assurance Analysts design and conduct tests for software products. The Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may be useful to Software Quality Assurance Analysts working with Scala code.

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Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design, implement, and maintain information systems. The Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may be useful to Systems Analysts working at companies that utilize Scala in the construction of those systems.

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Web Developer

Scala is a popular language for use in modern web development. The Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may thus be useful for those aspiring to work as Web Developers.

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Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists conduct research in all areas of computation and information technology. Since Scala is a popular language, the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may be useful for a variety of research specializations.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. While they may not always need to use functional programming, the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 may help Database Administrators work with specific database management systems that are compatible with Scala.

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Network Engineer

Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks. Scala is not commonly used by Network Engineers, so the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course will likely not be highly useful to these professionals.

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Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer networks and systems from unauthorized access. Scala is not commonly used for cybersecurity, so the Thinking Functionally in Scala 2 course may not be directly helpful for this role.

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