Computer Science 101 by Stanford: Free Course for Beginners

Computer Science 101 (CS101) by Stanford School of Engineering is a self-paced course designed for a zero-prior-experience audience. Computers can appear very complicated, but in reality, they work within just a few simple patterns. CS101 demystifies and brings those patterns to life, making it useful for anyone using computers today.

In CS101, participants play and experiment with short bits of "computer code" to demonstrate the power and limitations of computers. Everything works within the browser, so there is no extra software to download or install. The course also provides a general background on computers today: what is a computer, what is hardware, what is software, and what is the internet. Anyone who can use a web browser can succeed in this course. No previous computer science experience is required.