learncpp.online
University-level computer science education freely accessible to independent learners worldwide
Overview
learncpp.online is a web-based platform that provides comprehensive C++ programming education through a structured 15-week curriculum originally developed for CS 128 at the University of Illinois. Created with contributions from the CS 128 course staff, the platform makes university-level computer science education freely accessible to independent learners worldwide.
The curriculum systematically introduces fundamental programming concepts—including language syntax, objects and types, functions, and control structures—before advancing to sophisticated topics such as data structures (vectors, maps, linked lists, binary search trees), object-oriented programming with classes and inheritance, and modern C++ techniques including templates, smart pointers, and design patterns. Essential programming skills are woven throughout the course: students learn command line navigation, debugging techniques, version control with Git, build systems, and testing methodologies using the Catch2 framework. The platform emphasizes practical development alongside theoretical concepts, guiding learners through memory management, pointers and references, and advanced programming paradigms like polymorphism.
Currently, the platform provides lesson videos and activities in read-only format, with integrated development environment setup guides and practical coding exercises designed to reinforce material as students progress. While we do not yet offer the autograded programming assignments available to enrolled CS 128 students, we recognize the tremendous value that automated assessment brings to the learning experience—particularly the immediate feedback that helps students identify and correct misconceptions as they work through problems. We are actively planning to implement these interactive, autograded activities that will enable learners to receive instant feedback on their code, test their understanding through hands-on challenges, and maintain the same rigorous standards of our university course. This enhancement, which we intend to introduce once we secure the necessary resources for proper development and integration, will transform the platform from a valuable reference into a truly interactive learning environment where independent learners can experience the same quality of programming education delivered in our formal computer science courses.