Fundamentals of Python from edX

Here you will find the complete program of the course:

WEEK 1 - Introduction

This section explains how to install Python in both Windows and MacOS machines. Also, it shows how we can interact with Python through graphical frontends available on all systems. In particular, Spyder and Jupyter Notebook are discussed.

WEEK 2 - Algorithms and Objects Python Objects

This section introduces the concept of algorithms in a very intuitive way and defines the very first objects we can work with in Python such as integers and floats. We will see how to work with these objects including strings of text. We will also see ways to print information on the screen and how to interpret errors in the code.

WEEK 3 - More Complex Python Objects

Integers, floats and strings are very simple objects. This section introduces more complex objects such as lists and dictionaries which are a collection of either of the previous objects. We will also discuss how to use and dispatch specific methods associated to a given object type.

WEEK 4 - Conditional Statements and Loops

This section explains how we can compare objects through conditional statement. Also, we will see how we can tell Python to execute a series of instruction in an automated way through loops. This is a rather important aspect since very often we are required to carry out repeated operations over a collection of objects.

WEEK 5 - Functions

This section introduces Python functions. This is a very convenient way to customize our codes and tailor them according to the job we are doing. We will see how to build very simple functions and how we can call them. Moreover, we will also show how we can nest functions to be even more precise in defining our tasks.

WEEK 6 - Data Frames

This section introduces additional Python modules, in particular, pandas. pandas is the state of the art module to deal with spreadsheet-like data structures called Data.Frame. We will cover standard operations to show why is important to be able to use specialized modules.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Gaining working knowledge of python syntax
Writing python codes to automatically execute multiple tasks

The program aims to provide basic knowledge of python for daily work activities. the main topics covered in the program are:

Gaining working knowledge of python syntax
Writing python codes to automatically execute multiple tasks
The program aims to provide basic knowledge of python for daily work activities. the main topics covered in the program are:

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops basic knowledge of Python for daily work activities

Builds a strong foundation for beginners

Covers Python syntax, algorithms, conditional statements, and functions

Requires extensive background knowledge and familiarity with computer operations

Taught by Gaia Rubera and Francesco Grossetti, who are recognized for their work in Python

Reviews summary

Solid foundation in python fundamentals

According to students, this course offers a solid foundation in Python programming, particularly for those looking to apply it in daily work activities. Learners consistently praise the clear explanations provided by the instructor, making complex topics accessible for absolute beginners. The structured weekly modules and hands-on exercises, including the practical application of pandas for data handling, are frequently highlighted as strengths. While many find the course well-paced and comprehensive for an introduction, some noted a desire for deeper dives into advanced topics or more real-world projects, suggesting it's best viewed as a robust starting point rather than an exhaustive guide.

Comprehensive instructions for Python environment setup, including IDEs like Spyder and Jupyter.

"Installation instructions were very helpful, especially setting up Spyder and Jupyter."

"Starting with environment setup really put me at ease before diving into coding."

"The guidance on different Python interfaces was a great start for a beginner like me."

Well-organized into weekly modules, providing a manageable learning progression.

"I appreciated the structured week-by-week format. Made learning manageable."

"The course flow was logical and built knowledge step by step, which was very helpful."

"The syllabus is clearly laid out, making it easy to track progress and plan study time."

Focuses on Python for daily work activities, including useful data handling with pandas.

"Great foundation! I finally understand how to write simple scripts for my work."

"The pandas section was super useful for my data analysis tasks."

"I appreciate how the course tied Python concepts back to practical, everyday use cases."

Excellent for absolute beginners, making complex concepts easy to grasp.

"The instructor explains concepts really well, especially for beginners."

"This course made learning Python so much easier. The explanations were incredibly clear and concise."

"As someone new to programming, I found the way topics were introduced to be perfectly paced and easy to follow."

Provides a strong introduction but may not satisfy those seeking advanced or in-depth coverage.

"Good starting point, but I felt some topics could have been explored deeper, especially functions."

"While the basics are covered, I wish there were more real-world projects that went beyond introductory scope."

"For someone who already knows some basics, the initial pace was slow, and later topics felt a bit rushed."

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 Fundamentals of Python with these activities:

Review Basic Programming Concepts

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Reviewing basic programming concepts can help you to strengthen your foundation and make learning Python easier.

Browse courses on Programming Fundamentals

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Identify the basic programming concepts that you need to review.
Find resources such as online courses, tutorials, or books that cover these concepts.
Work through the resources and take notes on the key concepts.

Work Through Practice Problems from Textbook

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Practice drilling Python syntax can help reinforce the concepts learned in class and improve your fluency in the language.

Browse courses on Python Syntax

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Identify exercises in the textbook that cover the current topic being studied in class.
Work through the exercises on your own, referring to the textbook or class notes as needed.
Check your answers against the solutions provided in the textbook or online.

Develop Python Code Examples

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Creating your own Python code examples can help you to solidify your understanding of the language's syntax and functionality.

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Identify a concept or task that you want to practice with Python.
Write a Python code example that demonstrates the concept or task.
Test your code example to make sure that it works as expected.

One other activity

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Build a Simple Python Project

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Building a small Python project can help you to apply your skills and knowledge in a practical setting.

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Identify a simple Python project idea that interests you.
Plan and design your project, including the functionality and user interface.
Write the Python code for your project.
Test and debug your project to make sure that it works as expected.
Deploy your project to a public platform such as GitHub or Heroku.

Career center

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

Data Analyst

Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to help businesses make informed decisions. Python is a popular programming language for data analysis because it is easy to learn and has a wide range of libraries for data manipulation and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Data Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. Python is a popular programming language for software development because it is versatile and can be used to build a wide range of applications. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a strong foundation for a career as a Software Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data and make investment decisions. Python is a popular programming language for quantitative analysis because it is powerful and has a wide range of libraries for financial data analysis. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Quantitative Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Data Scientist

Data Scientists are responsible for collecting, cleaning, analyzing, and interpreting data to help businesses make informed decisions. Python is a popular programming language for data science because it is easy to learn and has a wide range of libraries for data manipulation and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Data Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers design and develop machine learning models to solve real-world problems. Python is a popular programming language for machine learning because it is easy to learn and has a wide range of libraries for machine learning. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Machine Learning Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use data to analyze business processes and make recommendations for improvement. Python is a popular programming language for business analysis because it is easy to learn and has a wide range of libraries for data manipulation and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Business Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts use financial data to analyze investment opportunities and make recommendations to clients. Python is a popular programming language for financial analysis because it is powerful and has a wide range of libraries for financial data analysis. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Financial Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze business processes and make recommendations for improvement. Python is a popular programming language for operations research because it is powerful and has a wide range of libraries for optimization and simulation. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as an Operations Research Analyst.

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Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. Python is a popular programming language for statistics because it is easy to learn and has a wide range of libraries for data manipulation and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Statistician.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Economist

Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Python is a popular programming language for economics because it is powerful and has a wide range of libraries for data analysis and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as an Economist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economist

Actuary

Actuaries use mathematical and statistical models to assess risk and uncertainty. Python is a popular programming language for actuarial science because it is powerful and has a wide range of libraries for data analysis and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as an Actuary.

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Risk Analyst

Risk Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to assess risk and uncertainty. Python is a popular programming language for risk analysis because it is powerful and has a wide range of libraries for data analysis and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Risk Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Compliance Analyst

Compliance Analysts ensure that companies comply with laws and regulations. Python is a popular programming language for compliance because it is easy to learn and has a wide range of libraries for data analysis and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Compliance Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Compliance Analyst

Fraud Analyst

Fraud Analysts investigate and prevent fraud. Python is a popular programming language for fraud analysis because it is powerful and has a wide range of libraries for data analysis and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as a Fraud Analyst.

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Auditor

Auditors examine financial records to ensure that they are accurate and compliant with laws and regulations. Python is a popular programming language for auditing because it is easy to learn and has a wide range of libraries for data analysis and visualization. This course will teach you the basics of Python programming, which will give you a solid foundation for a career as an Auditor.

See salaries and explore the career path for Auditor