As a photographer and blogger, I have my own websites that I maintain.
I am not a designer nor a developer, but I am always looking to learn more so that I can make custom changes to my web properties without pulling my hair out.
Jason Fried tipped me off to TreeHouse and this site looks awesome.
Step by step, you can learn in three different areas.
The instruction is video based. I checked out the web design side of things and it starts off with the bare minimum, assuming the viewer has zero experience with web design. It really does take you step by step through the process. You move along by earning “badges” that you get after viewing all of the videos and taking a quiz to test your knowledge.
The video lessons are broken down into short 5-10 minute segments covering various aspects along the way in a step by step fashion.
The videos are interactive in that they instruct you to follow along with what they are doing as the videos play.
You can go through several videos for free to see if you want to try the service out.
There are two price points, $49 and $25 respectively each month.
The difference between the 2 plans is the $49 plan provides access to videos that show you how to create some sites and apps from start to finish with downloadable example files. In addition, you have access to conference videos from Future of Web Design.
My son has shown a very strong interest in graphic design and web design, so after the holidays I am going try this out with him (I told him we’d do it together).
We’ll use it for a month and I will then provide a more in depth review, so more to come!
Try TreeHouse yourself, and tell us what you think.
Aaron Wright says
I’ve been using Treehouse for about a week now and absolutely love it. I’m on the $25 plan, but I am considering moving up to get some simulated project experience once I finish most of the badges. I wish they had more code challenges because they’re a great, practical way to demonstrate what you’ve learned. I heartily recommend Treehouse! Here’s my profile of anyone is interested in seeing what one looks like: http://teamtreehouse.com/aaronwright
Jay Caruso says
Very cool Aaron, thanks!
Nick Sheetz says
Thanks for sharing this! I have been looking into doing some training with the W3 Schools online but this is looking like it may be much more interesting to use.
Jay Caruso says
Cool. Let us know what you think if you decide to sign up!
Trevor Buehler says
Anyone know how this might compare to Lynda.com?
Jay Caruso says
Trevor, the difference I see is that Lynda.com assumes you have a little knowledge about coding. This site really starts at the bottom.
Ryan Mc says
Jay, thanks for the clarification. I am currently on Lynda, but have switched to TreeHouse at your recommendation.