Resources for Learning COBOL
As we delve into the wealth of resources available for mastering COBOL, it’s important to identify various formats and approaches that can enhance your understanding and proficiency in this timeless programming language. From online courses to books and community resources, there’s something for every type of learner. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the best materials for learning COBOL.
1. Online Courses
a. Coursera
- Course Name: Programming in COBOL
- Provider: University of Pennsylvania
- Description: This course covers foundational aspects of COBOL programming, focusing on syntax, data structures, and programming constructs. It’s beginner-friendly and offers a project-based approach.
- Link: Programming in COBOL
b. edX
- Course Name: Introduction to COBOL Programming
- Provider: IBM
- Description: This course introduces the COBOL programming language with an emphasis on how it’s used in business applications. It includes hands-on labs and real-world scenarios.
- Link: Introduction to COBOL Programming
c. Udemy
- Course Name: COBOL Programming from Beginner to Advanced
- Instructor: John Smith
- Description: A complete guide that helps learners progress from beginner to advanced levels in COBOL. The course includes quizzes and coding challenges to solidify understanding.
- Link: COBOL Programming from Beginner to Advanced
2. Books
a. “COBOL for the 21st Century” by Nancy B. Stern, Robert A. Stern, and James P. Ley
This book has been a staple for COBOL learners since its release. It offers a comprehensive overview of COBOL with practical examples and exercises. Perfect for both beginners and those looking to brush up their skills.
b. “Murach’s Mainframe COBOL” by Mike Murach & Associates
Murach's books are known for their clear explanations and practical approach. This title focuses on mainframe COBOL, including hands-on examples and exercises that reinforce concepts.
c. “COBOL Programming Absolute Beginner’s Guide” by Greg Perry and Dean Miller
This book demystifies COBOL for absolute beginners. It breaks down complex concepts into digestible sections making it ideal for those new to programming as well.
3. Documentation and Official Resources
a. OpenCOBOL Documentation
- Link: OpenCOBOL Documentation
- Description: OpenCOBOL (now known as GnuCOBOL) is an open-source COBOL compiler. Their documentation provides invaluable resources on installation, configuration, and basic programming techniques.
b. IBM COBOL Documentation
- Link: IBM Documentation
- Description: IBM offers extensive documentation for its COBOL versions, covering everything from syntax and programming techniques to advanced features in its systems.
4. YouTube Channels
a. TechOnTheNet
This channel provides concise tutorials on a variety of programming languages, including COBOL. You can find step-by-step guides to help visualize coding examples and understand fundamental concepts.
b. COBOL Programming Tutorials
A dedicated playlist that features several videos covering basic to advanced COBOL concepts with live coding demonstrations. This visual learning method can be especially beneficial for grasping complex topics.
5. Community Forums and Support
a. Stack Overflow
- Link: COBOL on Stack Overflow
- Description: Engage with other COBOL learners and professionals. Stuck on a coding issue? Chances are, someone has asked something similar! The community is helpful and responsive.
b. COBOL Reddit Community
- Link: r/cobol
- Description: This subreddit is a gathering place for all things COBOL. You’ll find discussions about trends, languages updates, and real-world applications that can inspire and inform your learning journey.
c. Meetups and Local User Groups
Search for local COBOL user groups through platforms like Meetup.com. These groups often hold workshops, webinars, and coding events, providing an opportunity to network with others and share knowledge.
6. GitHub Repositories
a. GnuCOBOL
- Link: GnuCOBOL on GitHub
- Description: Explore the source code for GnuCOBOL and contribute to its development. Reviewing real code helps deepen understanding and showcases practical applications of COBOL.
b. COBOL Projects
Search for COBOL projects on GitHub to see examples of COBOL in action. This is an excellent way to learn coding style, best practices, and to contribute to existing projects.
7. Practice Platforms
a. HackerRank
- Link: HackerRank COBOL Challenges
- Description: Engage in coding challenges specifically for COBOL programming. It’s a great way to test what you’ve learned and improve problem-solving skills.
b. Codewars
- Link: Codewars COBOL
- Description: Join a community of coders and solve challenges to further enhance your COBOL skills. Codewars provides gamified coding exercises that make learning fun!
8. Blogs and Online Articles
a. The COBOL Connection
A blog dedicated to COBOL enthusiasts that offers tips, tutorials, and the latest news related to COBOL programming. Real-world applications and case studies often feature here.
b. COBOL Report
This online resource includes articles, tutorials, and news related to COBOL, showcasing industry trends, software updates, and interviews with COBOL professionals.
9. Tools and IDEs
a. GnuCOBOL
An open-source COBOL compiler that is essential for writing and executing COBOL programs. Familiarizing yourself with GnuCOBOL is critical as it supports a straightforward coding environment.
b. Visual Studio Code
With the right extensions, Visual Studio Code can be a powerful tool for developing COBOL applications. Look for extensions that provide syntax highlighting and deployment tools for a smoother workflow.
Conclusion
Learning COBOL doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right resources, whether they’re structured courses, interactive coding challenges, or community support, anyone can become proficient in this classic programming language. Explore each type of resource we've highlighted, and eventually, you’ll find the tools that suit your learning style best. Embrace the journey, stay curious, and happy coding!