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Programming Fundamentals

Andrew D. Hilton, Genevieve M. Lipp, and Anne Bracy

Programming is an increasingly important skill, whether you aspire to a career in software development, or in other fields. This course is the first in the specialization Introduction to Programming in C, but its lessons extend to any language you might want to learn. This is because programming is fundamentally about figuring out how to solve a class of problems and writing the algorithm, a clear set of steps to solve any problem in its class. This course will introduce you to a powerful problem-solving process—the Seven Steps—which you can use to solve any programming problem. In this course, you will learn how to develop an algorithm, then progress to reading code and understanding how programming concepts relate to algorithms.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction

This module introduces a powerful process for solving any programming problem—the Seven Steps. You will learn how to approach a programming problem methodically, so you can formulate an algorithm that is specific and correct. You will work through examples with sequences of numbers and graphical patterns to develop the skill of algorithm development.

Reading Code

In this module, you will learn to read code—this means you will be able to execute a piece of code by hand, and clearly illustrate what each statement does and what the state of the program is. Understanding how to read code is the only way to be sure you can write correct code. By the end of this module, you will be able to read and understand code with functions, conditional statements, iteration, and other fundamental techniques.

Types

Everything is a number to a computer, but types determine the size and interpretation of numbers. In this module you will learn about types beyond integers, both their conceptual representations, and their hardware representations in binary. You will learn basic data types, "non-number" types, and complex, custom types, as well as some important caveats, so you will avoid type-related programming mistakes.

Project

You have learned a lot about designing algorithms and the programming concepts that will help you implement them. For this project, you will develop and test your own algorithm for sorting data. This module will reinforce the importance of being specific when you write an algorithm and provide an opportunity for you to do so yourself, for a very common computational task: sorting.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores a powerful seven-step process for developing and solving algorithms, empowering learners to solve complex programming challenges

Provides a comprehensive introduction to fundamental programming concepts, including types, sequences, and iteration

Taught by instructors with industry experience, ensuring the relevance and applicability of the course content

Emphasizes code reading and analysis, building a strong foundation for understanding programming concepts and structures

Builds upon each module, reinforcing concepts and providing a structured learning experience

Includes a practical project to apply newly acquired skills and solidify understanding

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Reviews summary

Programming essentials

learners say the course is useful for building a strong foundation in programming fundamentals, especially for beginners with no prior programming experience. The course emphasizes the importance of planning and executing code, and it teaches a 7-step process for writing efficient and clear programs. The course also covers important concepts such as algorithms, reading and understanding code, and data types. While the course is primarily focused on C programming, learners say the concepts and skills they learn can be applied to other programming languages as well. The course materials include videos, readings, and quizzes, and learners appreciate the balance between theoretical explanations and hands-on practice. Overall, learners say the course provides a solid foundation for anyone who wants to learn programming or improve their programming skills.

The course includes hands-on practice through quizzes and assignments.

"The course is not only good for beginners to start coding, but it is also suitable for someone wants to take System course using C."

The course teaches a 7-step process for writing efficient and clear code.

"I really liked how the instructors introduced me to programming fundamentals."

"This course will give you the principles to understand how computers read, interpret and execute code."

The course is suitable for beginners with no prior programming experience.

"This is an excellent course that really does a great job of getting you to stop and think about what you're doing rather than just telling you to do it."

"I had no background in programming before attending that course."

"This was a nice experience of mine studying online with coursera."

The course emphasizes the importance of planning before writing code. It teaches a 7-step process for writing efficient and clear programs.

"All three instructors in this course are very amazing & I am willing to learn more from them & take more courses from them."

"It is very interesting course for me, because I always wanted to know a bit more about computer science and technologies."

"It really helped me to understand the importance of planning to make algorithm and not rush for programming."

The course provides a solid foundation in programming fundamentals.

"Good intro course to C programming, and programming in general."

"It made me think."

"I am very happy to finish this lesson, it is a lesson worth pursuing."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Programming Fundamentals with these activities:

Review essential mathematical concepts

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Solidify your mathematical foundation by reviewing concepts like algebra and logic, which are essential for understanding programming concepts.

Browse courses on Mathematics

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Identify areas of mathematics relevant to programming
Review textbooks or online resources covering these concepts

Create a glossary of programming terms

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Enhance your understanding of programming terminology by creating a comprehensive glossary, which will serve as a valuable reference throughout your learning.

Browse courses on Vocabulary

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Identify commonly used programming terms
Define each term clearly and concisely
Organize the terms alphabetically or by category

Review core programming concepts

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Refresh your understanding of programming fundamentals like variables, data types, and control flow to enhance your comprehension of this course's material.

Browse courses on Programming Concepts

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Review variable declaration and assignment
Practice using loops and conditionals
Solve simple programming problems using these constructs

Four other activities

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Explore online tutorials on algorithm design

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Enhance your problem-solving skills by exploring online tutorials and practicing algorithm design techniques, which will be crucial for this course.

Browse courses on Algorithm Design

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Identify reputable online platforms for tutorials
Select tutorials covering fundamental algorithm design patterns
Follow the tutorials, taking notes and practicing the concepts

Seek guidance from experienced programmers

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Connect with experienced programmers who can provide valuable insights, support, and guidance throughout your learning journey.

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Identify potential mentors through online platforms, meetups, or personal connections
Reach out to mentors, introducing yourself and expressing your interest in their guidance
Establish regular communication and seek feedback on your progress

Solve daily coding challenges

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Regularly practice solving coding challenges to improve your problem-solving abilities and sharpen your programming skills.

Browse courses on Coding Challenges

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Identify online platforms or resources for daily coding challenges
Set aside time each day for solving challenges

Develop a portfolio of solved coding problems

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Create a portfolio showcasing your problem-solving abilities by compiling solved coding problems, demonstrating your understanding and application of the course concepts.

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Select a platform or method for showcasing your solutions
Document your solutions clearly, explaining your approach and thought process
Share your portfolio with potential employers or mentors

Career center

Learners who complete Programming Fundamentals will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Engineer

As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. This course will provide you with the programming fundamentals necessary to succeed in this role, including algorithm development, code reading, and software testing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use programming to analyze data and build models to solve business problems. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including algorithm development, data analysis, and modeling techniques.

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Web Developer

Web Developers use programming to design and develop websites. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including web design, front-end development, and back-end development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Mobile App Developer

Mobile App Developers use programming to design and develop mobile applications. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including mobile app design, iOS development, and Android development.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for managing the development and launch of software products. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including product planning, user research, and software development.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers are responsible for creating technical documentation, such as user manuals and white papers. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including technical writing, software documentation, and user experience.

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Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems from security breaches. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including cybersecurity, network security, and data encryption.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including database design, data management, and SQL programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts are responsible for analyzing and designing computer systems. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including systems analysis, requirements gathering, and software design.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts use programming to analyze data and extract insights. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including data analysis, data visualization, and machine learning.

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Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers use programming to create and maintain software applications. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including software development, programming languages, and debugging.

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Software Tester

Software Testers are responsible for testing software applications to ensure that they are working as intended. This course will provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including software testing, debugging, and test automation.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts are responsible for analyzing and designing business processes. This course may provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including process mapping, requirements gathering, and data analysis.

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Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for planning and managing software development projects. This course may provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including project planning, resource management, and stakeholder management.

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IT Support Specialist

IT Support Specialists are responsible for providing technical support to computer users. This course may provide you with the programming skills necessary to succeed in this role, including troubleshooting, hardware repair, and software installation.

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Reading list

We've selected 16 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Programming Fundamentals.

Cracking the Coding Interview

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Is excellent preparation for anyone who is interviewing for a programming or computer science role. It includes practice questions and strategies for answering common interview questions.

Programming Fundamentals

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Reviews summary

Programming essentials

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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