NoSQL databases diverge from traditional relational databases by leveraging non-tabular storage methods, such as document databases tailored for storing data in document formats like JSON and XML. Some of the types of NoSQL databases include key-value stores, wide-column databases, graph databases and more. MongoDB, Cassandra, HBase, Hypertable, and Neo4j are a few big names in this space.
AIM has curated a list of the top five free courses that every developer can take up to understand and implement NoSQL databases.
1. Database Architecture, Scale, and NoSQL with Elasticsearch
The University of Michigan offers a course on database architecture, scale, and NoSQL with Elasticsearch as part of PostgreSQL. Taught in English, but available in over 20 languages, the course covers PostgreSQL architecture, SQL and NoSQL analysis, and a comparison between ACID and BASE style architectures.
The intermediate-level free course requires approximately 10 hours to complete, offering flexibility in scheduling. The learning experience involves assessments through two quizzes, and a shareable career certificate. The final module explores database architecture, PostgreSQL, and scalable deployment configurations, emphasising basic CRUD operations, indexes, and the implementation of ACID requirements.
Register Database Architecture, Scale, and NoSQL with Elasticsearch.
2. Introduction to NoSQL Databases
With over 25 years of industry experience, Sarma Pydipally, principal engineer (database) of Verizon Data Services, brings to you this free introductory course on NoSQL databases.
This training course provides an introduction to the evolution of database technology, specifically focusing on the transition from traditional DBMS to NoSQL databases. The course covers the history and development of NoSQL databases, exploring concepts such as vertical scaling vs horizontal scaling and the scaling challenges faced by previous generations. Additionally, it delves into the Five V’s of big data – velocity, volume, variety, veracity, and value.
The need for NoSQL databases and their promises are examined, along with a discussion on the varied types within the NoSQL landscape. The course addresses document databases, key-value stores, graph databases, wide column stores, and time-series data.
Find out more about the course on the Introduction to NoSQL Databases.
3. NoSQL, Big Data, and Spark Foundations Specialisation
Available for free, the IBM NoSQL, Big Data, and Spark Foundations Specialisation is a three-course series designed to equip individuals with practical skills for a career in big data. The specialisation, taught in English by the IBM Skills Network Team, covers essential concepts in NoSQL databases, Big Data technologies, and Apache Spark.
Participants gain hands-on experience working with popular NoSQL databases like MongoDB, Apache Cassandra, and IBM Cloudant, mastering tasks such as data insertion, updating, querying, and indexing. The curriculum also delves into foundational Big Data knowledge, including Apache Hadoop, MapReduce, and Kubernetes, with a focus on hands-on lab experience.
Participants learn extract, transform, and load (ETL) processing and machine learning model deployment using Apache Spark, Spark SQL, and SparkML. The specialisation is suitable for beginners and targets aspiring data engineers, software developers, IT architects, data scientists, and IT managers.
Sign up for the course NoSQL, Big Data, and Spark Foundations Specialisation
4. NoSQL and DBaaS 101
This course by IBM, NoSQL and DBaaS 101 provides an overview of the NoSQL database landscape, emphasising the advantages of utilising Database-as-a-Service (DBaaS) and introducing the role of IBM Cloudant within this context. The course also covers account setup, database creation and replication, data loading and querying using Cloudant.
The objective is to equip participants with the necessary skills and understanding to leverage a flexible schema for fast application development, handle scalable datasets and concurrent users, and explore the benefits of offloading database administration to a service provider.
The prerequisites for the course include a connected laptop or desktop, a modern browser (preferably Google Chrome), and the installation of cURL for accessing HTTP REST API from the command line. Prior knowledge in databases, HTTP, JSON, and basic familiarity with browsers and cURL on the Linux command line is recommended.
Register NoSQL and DBaaS 101 Course by cognitiveclass
5. MongoDB Aggregation Framework
Learn MongoDB Aggregation Framework through this free course by the database giant itself. It holds an intermediate level, requires no prior experience and can be completed in 18 hours over three weeks, with a flexible schedule allowing you to learn at your own pace.
The curriculum covers schema design, relational data migrations, and machine learning with MongoDB. Upon completion, you’ll possess the skills to effectively use MongoDB and its aggregation framework in your data science workflow.
Find more information MongoDB Agreegation Framework by Coursera
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