Introduction to Open Source Application Development from Coursera

This course introduces basic concepts of systems programming using a modern open source language. You will learn to apply basic programming concepts toward solving problems, writing pseudocode, working with and effectively using basic data types, abstract data types, control structures, code modularization and arrays. You will learn to detect errors, work with variables and loops, and discover how functions, methods, and operators work with different data types. You will also be introduced to the object paradigm including classes, inheritance, and polymorphism.

Learning Python has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for a good reason. Python is a versatile programming language that can be used for a wide range of applications, including data science, machine learning, web development, and more. In an introductory Python course such as this, you can expect to learn the basics of Python syntax, data types, control structures, and functions. Learning Python can lead to many career benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and the ability to work on exciting and innovative projects. Additionally, adding online courses and certifications to a resume can demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a willingness to learn new skills.

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

- Recall and describe software application and development theory and concepts

- Write, compile, execute, troubleshoot, analyze, evaluate, and resolve simple problems through program coding using Python computer language.

- Develop, synthesize, and identify important language standard libraries and utilities.

- Apply data transfer techniques between modules using parameters and return values.

- Construct applications to use simple files for input and output.

- Implement arrays as structures to contain data.

- Use a higher-level programming language to code, test, and debug software designs.

- Implement concepts of Object Oriented Programming (OOP), inheritance and polymorphism.

- Describe integration of Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and event driven programming.

- Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions (ABET Computing Criterion 3.1)

- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline (ABET Computing Criterion 3.2)

- Identify and analyze user needs and take them into account in the selection, creation, evaluation, and administration of computer-based systems (ABET IT Criterion 3.6)

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction to Python and Programming

Welcome to Introduction to Open Source Application Development! In this module, you will learn to install and configure Python and Visual Studio Code (VSC). You will gain proficiency in programming fundamentals, including declaring variables, describing data types, and implementing programming logic using flowcharts and pseudocode. Additionally, you will acquire the skills to perform arithmetic operations and effectively work with code in Visual Studio Code, culminating in the ability to upload your coding results to the appropriate platform.

Module 2: Sequential Control Structures, Basic Input/Output, Type Conversions

Module 2 focuses on essential programming concepts and skills. You will learn to format output effectively, leveraging various techniques to present data clearly. Additionally, you will explore the importance of type conversion functions and how to use them proficiently. Finally, you will gain an understanding of the sequential flow of a program, mastering the art of designing programs that interact with users through input and output statements.

Module 3: Decision Control Structure (Logical Statements)

In this module, you will learn how to utilize decision alternatives and construct decision structures using conditional statements like 'if' conditions. This essential skill will enable you to create dynamic and responsive programs that adapt their behavior based on specific conditions and criteria.

Module 4: Repetition Control Structure, Logical Statements cont.

In this module, you will learn how to construct nested loops to handle complex repetitive tasks efficiently. Additionally, you'll gain proficiency in constructing both 'For' and 'While' loops, empowering you to create versatile and optimized code for various scenarios, from iterative calculations to data processing.

Module 5: Functions and Program Modularity, Common Library Packages, Debugging

This module is designed to enhance your programming skills by focusing on key areas. You'll learn the art of debugging source code, equipping you with the ability to identify and resolve errors effectively. You will explore how to work with imported modules, expanding your code's functionality. And lastly, you'll delve into defining and implementing user-defined functions, enabling you to organize and streamline your code while building reusable blocks of logic for various applications.

Module 6: List Processing, File IO Processing

In this module, you will explore essential data manipulation skills. You will learn how to efficiently read and write data to and from files, a critical aspect of real-world data processing. Additionally, you'll master list manipulation techniques, including list slicing, and expand your capabilities by creating lists, including multidimensional ones, enabling you to handle and analyze structured data effectively.

Module 7: Object Oriented Programming (OOP) including Inheritance, UML

In this module, you will dive into object-oriented programming (OOP) principles and practices. You will demonstrate your understanding of unified modeling through UML class diagramming, a crucial skill for designing and visualizing software systems. You will also learn how to harness the power of inheritance to build upon existing classes, and you will create your own classes and class objects, paving the way for modular, efficient, and scalable software development.

Module 8: Crafting Graphical User Interfaces (GUI)

In this module, you will learn how to leverage the Tkinter module to create your own customized GUIs, giving you the ability to design user-friendly software interfaces. Furthermore, you will gain an understanding of the fundamental building blocks of GUIs as you describe and work with basic controls that constitute an interactive and visually engaging user interface.

Summative Course Assessment

This module contains the summative course assessment that has been designed to evaluate your understanding of the course material and assess your ability to apply the knowledge you have acquired throughout the course. Be sure to review the course material thoroughly before taking the assessment.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Beneficial for learners seeking a foundation for modern open source application development

Real-world applications through problem-solving and program coding

Introduction to Object Oriented Programming, a paradigm used extensively in modern applications

Teaches concepts of Graphical User Interfaces and event driven programming, which are essential in software applications using Python

May require additional resources or coursework for advanced proficiency in Python

May require foundational knowledge in computer science or prior experience with programming to fully grasp the concepts

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 Introduction to Open Source Application Development with these activities:

Review basic programming concepts

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Brush up on the programming fundamentals you'll need for this course.

Browse courses on Syntax

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Review the basics of data types and variables.
Work through examples of conditional statements.
Practice writing loops to iterate through data.
Define functions to organize and reuse your code.

Join Python Study Group

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Collaborate with fellow learners to discuss concepts, share knowledge, and tackle challenges together.

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Find or form a Python study group
Schedule regular meetings
Discuss course topics, assignments, and projects

Read 'Head First Python'

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of Python's core concepts and programming techniques.

View Head First Python: A Learner's Guide to the... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book
Read and understand the chapters relevant to the course
Complete the exercises and examples provided in the book

Ten other activities

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Review Basic Programming Concepts

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Refresh your understanding of programming basics to strengthen your foundation for Python.

Browse courses on Programming Fundamentals

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Review online resources or textbooks
Complete beginner-level coding exercises
Attend a workshop or class

Join a Python study group

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Collaborate with other learners to reinforce your understanding and stay motivated.

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Find a study group or create your own.
Meet regularly to discuss course topics and work on projects.
Help each other troubleshoot problems and prepare for assessments.

Solve Python Coding Challenges

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Sharpen your problem-solving skills and deepen your understanding of Python syntax and concepts.

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Find online coding challenges
Attempt to solve the challenges
Review solutions and learn from mistakes

Explore Python Modules

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Expand your knowledge of Python's capabilities by following tutorials on specific libraries and frameworks.

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Identify useful Python modules
Follow online tutorials or documentation
Implement the module in your own code

Solve Python coding challenges

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Apply your Python skills to solve coding puzzles and reinforce your understanding.

Browse courses on Data Structures

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Sign up for a coding challenge website.
Start with easier challenges and gradually increase the difficulty.
Analyze the solutions to understand different approaches.

Build a Python Project

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Construct a Python project to reinforce your understanding of code syntax, logic, and data structures.

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Define project goals and scope
Design and implement code
Test and debug code
Document your project

Write a Python Tutorial

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Solidify your understanding of Python by explaining concepts and writing examples for others.

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Choose a specific topic or concept to cover
Write a clear and concise tutorial
Provide code examples and explanations
Share your tutorial with others

Complete Python tutorials on object-oriented programming

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Enhance your Python skills by learning about object-oriented programming concepts.

Browse courses on Object-Oriented Programming

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Find online tutorials or courses on object-oriented programming in Python.
Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises.
Implement object-oriented principles in your own Python projects.

Contribute to an Open-Source Python Project

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Enhance your Python skills and gain practical experience by contributing to real-world projects.

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Identify a suitable open-source Python project
Review the project's documentation and codebase
Propose and develop a contribution
Submit your contribution for review and merging

Build a Python project to apply your skills

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Put your Python knowledge into practice by creating a project that solves a real-world problem.

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Identify a problem or need that you can solve with Python.
Design and implement a Python program to address the problem.
Test and refine your program to ensure it meets the user's needs.
Share your project with others to showcase your skills and knowledge.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Open Source Application Development will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course can help build a foundation for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to work as a Data Analyst. Additionally, the course covers topics such as data analysis and data visualization, which are essential for data analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers design and develop machine learning models. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course can help build a foundation for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to work as a Machine Learning Engineer. Additionally, the course covers topics such as machine learning algorithms and data mining, which are essential for machine learning engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course can help build a foundation for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to work as a Web Developer. Additionally, the course covers topics such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which are essential for web development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make predictions. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course can help build a foundation for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to work as a Data Scientist. Additionally, the course covers topics such as data analysis and machine learning, which are essential for data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course can help build a foundation for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to work as a Software Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists research and develop new computing technologies. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course can help build a foundation for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to work as a Computer Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and test software applications. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course can help build a foundation for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to work as a Software Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write, maintain, and test the code that allows computer applications and software programs to run. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course can help build a foundation for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to work as a Computer Programmer.

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Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts design, implement, and maintain computer systems. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course may be useful for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge can be helpful for Computer Systems Analysts who want to develop software applications or design computer systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and develop solutions to improve efficiency. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course may be useful for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge can be helpful for Business Analysts who want to develop software applications or automate business processes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators design, implement, and maintain databases. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course may be useful for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge can be helpful for Database Administrators who want to develop software applications or manage databases.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Network Administrator

Network Administrators design, implement, and maintain computer networks. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course may be useful for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge can be helpful for Network Administrators who want to develop software applications or manage computer networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Information Technology Specialist

Information Technology Specialists provide technical support to users and maintain computer systems. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course may be useful for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge can be helpful for Information Technology Specialists who want to develop software applications or troubleshoot computer problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Specialist

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course may be useful for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge can be helpful for Systems Analysts who want to develop software applications or design computer systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Security Analyst

Security Analysts design, implement, and maintain computer security systems. The Introduction to Open Source Application Development course may be useful for this role by teaching the basics of Python, data types, control structures, and functions. This knowledge can be helpful for Security Analysts who want to develop software applications or manage computer security systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst