If you're learning how to programme for the first time, or alternatively, if you're someone with some existing skills who wants to brush up or expand your existing skills base, then you should first consider what type of training you will require.

Doing a Visual Basic (VB) course can help you to become a self sufficient programmer, making programmes that can be used on Windows computers and on the internet. The current version of the software is supplied with the course from Home Learning Courses, and is designed to be easy to use, being the latest in a long line of software releases covering the BASIC language that has been widely used since the 1970s. As the name suggests, the actual interface of Visual Basic is designed so that you can see what you're doing very clearly, with options selected from drop down lists. You can learn transferable skills by doing this course that are evident to employers by the fact that 'Microsoft Certified Professional' status is available upon successfully completing the exam.

A Java programming course is more suitable for someone who already has some experience of programming, as this is a newer technology than Visual Basic. The technology, however, is incredibly widespread, being installed on over eight hundred million PCs, over two billion mobile phones and hand held devices and on over three billion smart cards. Learning Java enables you to write your programme without needing to worry about it being compatible on another platform, and right powerful, but small scale applications for an increasing number of 'everyday' devices, like mobiles. The course that is available in this is also tailored to professional recognition, allowing you to undertake an exam upon completion of the syllabus to achieve becoming a Sun Certified Programmer for Java.

if you already have experience of programming, but you're still not sure which course to take, you may want to consider the future of both technologies. On the one hand, Java is essentially 'open source', and left to be worked with by the programming community (or, more precisely, companies who want to apply it to their needs) - this may mean a healthy consistent uptake of Java and widespread development into the future. Visual Basic, on the other hand, is proprietary (being owned by Microsoft). Whilst this means only one company is allowed to develop its use, it also means this company has a strong incentive to make Visual Basic useful for years to come, as well as that company happening to be the world's largest software company. Although both packages have a range of applications, generally, Java is seen as a more web oriented package, whereas Visual Basic has a number of local desktop professional applications, and this distinction may have some relevance when deciding which course to follow. However, in practice, as a respected programmer, you may be required to have both, and if you have experience of neither, it is advisable to start first with Visual Basic before moving on.

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