Those who have always wanted to learn Linux but couldn't afford the $2,400 tuition fee will have a chance to do so this summer. The Linux Foundation said it will be making its "Introduction to Linux" course available to anyone who would like to learn it, VentureBeat reported.
The course will be offered for free through edX, the online learning platform of Harvard and MIT. Those who are interested to learn the open source software, even if they have no background about it, can sign up.
Linux Foundation Vice President Armanda McPherson told VentureBeat in an interview, "EdX is a natural partner because it, too, is non-profit and based on open source software." She added that putting up more courses from the Foundation on the edX platform will depend on the reception of the first course by the public, the report said.
Knowing Linux can certainly enhance an applicant's resume. According to the 2014 Linux Jobs Report by the Foundation, an overwhelming majority-90%- of hiring managers are seeking Linux professionals in the next six months. However, there is a shortage of these professionals compared to the industry demand, the report said.
There are now 150 massive open online courses or MOOCs offered by the edX platform which was rolled out in 2012. Nearly 2 million people have enrolled in these courses offered by over 30 universities. There are at least 60,000 students per class in some of these MOOCs. These courses are can pave the way for those who want to pursue technical careers as these can lead one to obtain college degrees and technical certificates, the report said.
In addition to offering courses from universities, edX has started a new initiative that allows non-academic organizations like Linux Foundation to offer their courses. Moreover, the International Monetary Fund, the family foundation of Warren Buffet and the Smithsonian are also some of the new members of edX, the report said.
Join the Conversation