Internet of Things

What is the Best Way to Learn Internet of Things (IoT)?

What is the Best Way to Learn Internet of Things (Iot)?

What is the Best Way to Learn Internet of Things (IoT)?

To help you navigate the world of Internet of Things (IoT), we’ve gathered insights from ten industry leaders, including directors and CEOs. Their advice ranges from starting with C/C++ and Arduino to exploring Edureka’s YouTube Course on IoT. Dive in to discover the best ways to learn IoT from those at the forefront of the field.

  • Start with C/C++ and Arduino
  • Get Real-World Experience with Arduino and Raspberry Pi
  • Find Online Courses and Instructional Books
  • Adopt a Multi-Faceted Approach
  • Take a Project-Based Learning Approach
  • Specify Your IoT Interest
  • Assemble the IoT Puzzle
  • Look into MOOCs and Communities
  • Set Up a Home IoT System
  • Explore Edureka’s YouTube Course on IoT

 

Start with C/C++ and Arduino

Starting with C/C++ is a good idea, as these are the principal programming languages for most IoT devices. It’s unnecessary to be an expert on the latest features of C++20, but knowing the basics like the basic syntax, control flow structures, and how to divide your code into functions and classes is important.

Arduino is another good learning platform. The Arduino API can be used with other microcontrollers too, like the STM32 or the ESP32, making it a good first choice. It’s also beneficial to look into platform-specific frameworks like ESP-IDF or STM32Cube.

For those interested in designing their own boards, open-source tools like KiCad can be explored. It might seem daunting at first, but there are helpful tutorials on YouTube that can guide through the process.

Esteban Pardo, Director, Nuwiz

 

Get Real-World Experience with Arduino and Raspberry Pi

IoT is the Internet of things. Things exist in the real world, and so designing, coding, implementing, and testing need to be done in the real world with real-world factors. If somebody wanted to learn to catch a ball, I would physically show them. I would not explain the mechanics or show them a video without genuine experience. 

The two main resources to start with are Arduino and Raspberry Pi hardware and tutorials. These provide cost-friendly access to sensors, processors, network interfacing, and more. For the server/infrastructure side, Azure offers many cheap development and test options. You could create an IoT Hub and connect your devices on the free tier at little cost. 

Finally, if you want a slightly more plug-and-play experience, there are companies and service providers that have devices which interface with minimal setup. One such resource is the Things Network. I have no personal experience with them but have been following them for quite a while and like their offering.

Daniel Krentz, VP of Product and Operations, Wireless Data Systems, Inc.

 

Find Online Courses and Instructional Books

I think the best way to learn the Internet of Things is through online courses and reading instructional books. Online courses and tutorials offer a flexible and cost-effective way to learn about IoT. 

Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer a wide range of IoT courses for beginners to advanced learners. Ultimately, the best way to learn about IoT is to be proactive and continually seek out new learning opportunities. By combining online courses with hands-on projects and practical experience, you can gain a well-rounded understanding of IoT and become proficient in the technology.

Maryna Mitchell-Dereviaga, Account Executive, Elai.io

 

Adopt a Multi-Faceted Approach

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a vast and rapidly evolving field. To best learn and understand IoT, one should adopt a multi-faceted approach. Here’s a recommended strategy:

  1. Foundational Knowledge: Start by understanding the basics of IoT. 
  2. Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer comprehensive courses on IoT. 
  3. Hands-on Projects: Invest in an IoT starter kit, like Raspberry Pi or Arduino, to begin experimenting. 
  4. Join IoT Communities: Engage with online forums, attend webinars, and participate in IoT workshops or hackathons. 
  5. Specialized Training: For those looking to delve deeper, consider specialized training or certifications.
  6. Stay Updated: Regularly read industry journals, blogs, and news articles to stay informed about the latest developments and innovations.
  7. Practical Application in a Professional Setting: If possible, seek opportunities within your organization. Real-world challenges offer the best learning experiences.

Nils Arnold, CEO, ADTANCE GmbH & Co. KG

 

Take a Project-Based Learning Approach

The best way to learn IoT is through projects that are related to your hobbies. Start by picking a specific IoT project, like creating a system to automate your home. Break it down into parts that are easier to handle. This hands-on method makes it possible to put IoT ideas into practice, including choosing sensors, finding ways to connect them, writing microcontrollers, and managing data. 

Taking on challenges is a natural way to learn more about technical details and develop useful skills for fixing problems. Also, finishing real projects gives you a sense of accomplishment and helps you build a strong portfolio that shows off your IoT skills to possible employers or partners.

Salim Benadel, Director, Storm Internet

 

Specify Your IoT Interest

IoT is an incredibly broad category. As with anything, you’ll have to narrow down what you want to learn about exactly. If hardware is your interest, then there are several great classes online that showcase hardware prototype creation and tinkering. 

If software is your focus, then there are even more classes and opportunities to learn. The important thing is to know what you are trying to do, more specifically than just IoT.

Trevor Ewen, COO, QBench

 

Assemble the IoT Puzzle

Learning IoT is a bit like assembling a puzzle. First, get your hands on a simple gadget like a Raspberry Pi or Arduino. These are like mini-computers that you can command through your phone. Try simple tasks like turning an LED light on and off to get a feel for it. As you get more comfortable, you’ll want to learn some coding. Python and JavaScript are pretty user-friendly and widely used for IoT projects. 

To make your gadgets talk to each other or the internet, you’ll need to understand some networking basics. MQTT is a good starting point; think of it as a chat app, but for machines. Once you’ve got the hang of these, try to build something small and useful like a weather station that shows temperature and humidity on your phone. 

Don’t forget to learn about security, since IoT devices can be easy targets for hackers. Whenever you’re stuck or looking for advice, the internet is full of forums and how-to videos. Keep experimenting and making your projects more complex over time.

Søren Rosenmeier, Senior Partner and Group CEO, Right People Group

 

Look into MOOCs and Communities

Embarking on a journey to master the Internet of Things (IoT) necessitates a comprehensive approach. Engaging with reputable Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and platforms such as Coursera or edX offers structured, in-depth IoT courses. Additionally, delving into IoT developer communities like IoT Central and Hackster fosters collaborative learning through shared experiences and resources. By synergizing theoretical knowledge with practical implementation, enthusiasts can cultivate a profound understanding of IoT’s intricate ecosystem.

Also, commence with foundational resources such as books authored by industry luminaries like Kevin Ashton or Erik Brynjolfsson. Subsequently, immerse in hands-on experimentation leveraging development kits like Raspberry Pi and Arduino. Engaging with IoT-focused meetups and conferences, such as IoT World and IoT Tech Expo, fosters networking opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge trends.

Vikas Kaushik, CEO, TechAhead

 

Set Up a Home IoT System

The best way to dive into the captivating world of the Internet of Things (IoT) is by embarking on a hands-on journey. Picture it as a “Smart Home Sandbox.” Start by setting up a small-scale IoT system in your own home. Experiment with smart devices like thermostats, lights, or security cameras, and connect them to a central hub. 

This practical experience allows you to grasp the fundamentals of IoT technology while understanding the nuances of device integration and data management. As you tinker and troubleshoot, you’ll gain valuable insights into how these devices communicate and interact with each other, making your learning journey both engaging and enlightening.

Simultaneously, stay informed about IoT trends and innovations by following industry publications, online forums, and IoT-focused blogs. Engage with the IoT community to exchange ideas, ask questions, and learn from others’ experiences.

Precious Abacan, Content Marketer, Softlist

 

Explore Edureka’s YouTube Course on IoT

Edureka’s YouTube channel offers an 18-video-long course on the Internet of Things (IoT). Two years ago, these video tutorials provided more knowledge than any other paid course. Edureka’s approach is beginner-friendly, starting with an explanation of IoT before diving into a tutorial on building a weather station application using Raspberry Pi and Sense Hat. 

For a basic understanding of IoT, the first video is sufficient. However, for those aiming to secure a job in this field, it is recommended to watch all 18 videos to lay a solid foundation.

Scott Lieberman, Owner, Touchdown Money

 

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