We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi

The Raspberry Pi is a small, affordable single-board computer that you will use to design and develop fun and practical IoT devices while learning programming and computer hardware. In addition, you will learn how to set up up the Raspberry Pi environment, get a Linux operating system running, and write and execute some basic Python code on the Raspberry Pi. You will also learn how to use Python-based IDE (integrated development environments) for the Raspberry Pi and how to trace and debug Python code on the device. Please note that this course does not include discussion forums.

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.

All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.

Valid until March 12, 2027

Save 40% Off 3 Months

Access thousands of top-rated learning programs with a Coursera Plus monthly subscription and take 40% off 3 months for a limited time.

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1

This module describes the basic functionality the Raspberry Pi B+ board. I'll describe how to set up the board, configure it, and use it. An important point differentiating Raspberry Pi from the Arduino platform which we have talked about previously is that Raspberry Pi uses an operating system. I'll describe some of the implications of an operating system on the behavior of the Raspberry Pi as an IoT device.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops skills in configuring operating systems, writing code, and interfacing with hardware

Teaches Python, which is highly relevant for IoT

Uses Raspberry Pi, an established platform for IoT

Provides hands-on experience with hardware and programming

Emphasizes the use of Python-based IDEs, which are industry standard

Provides a good foundation for beginners in IoT hardware programming

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Hands-on raspberry pi and python basics

According to learners, this course provides a solid introduction to the Raspberry Pi platform and Python programming for hardware interaction. Students appreciate the practical, hands-on approach, finding it a great starting point for beginners interested in building IoT devices or interacting with hardware using Python. However, some note the necessity of purchasing hardware, which adds to the cost, and a few found the pace uneven, particularly regarding prerequisites in Linux or Python basics. The absence of discussion forums was also mentioned as a drawback for getting help. Overall, it's seen as a valuable foundation, though learners should be prepared for potential setup challenges and plan for additional resources for deeper dives.

Introduces Linux, Python, and GPIO essentials.

"The modules on Linux command line basics and Python were very helpful for context."

"Understanding how to use the RPi.GPIO library was exactly what I needed from this course."

"They do a good job covering the fundamental software setup and interaction with the hardware pins."

Excellent first step into Raspberry Pi and Python.

"This was my very first time working with a Raspberry Pi, and the course made it approachable."

"I had minimal Python experience, and they covered just enough basics to get started on the Pi projects."

"If you're new to physical computing or the Pi, this course is a solid entry point."

Focus on practical application and projects.

"I really enjoyed the labs and demos; actually getting to wire things up and see the code work was great."

"The projects were the highlight for me, applying the concepts taught in the lectures directly."

"It's not just theory; you actually get to do things with the Pi, which is very valuable."

Some parts too basic, others move quickly.

"I found some of the early content very basic if you already know a little Python or Linux."

"The transition from basic Python to controlling hardware felt a bit abrupt at times."

"Might be challenging if you have absolutely no prior exposure to coding or command lines."

No forum support for questions.

"It was frustrating not having a forum to ask questions when I ran into specific issues with my setup."

"Missing a community space to troubleshoot problems or discuss topics further."

"Support options were limited without active discussion boards."

Need to buy a Raspberry Pi and components.

"Just be aware, you really do need to have the physical Raspberry Pi board and some components to follow along effectively."

"The course is good, but the requirement to purchase the hardware kit added an unexpected cost."

"Make sure you budget for the Pi itself and the necessary sensors and wires mentioned in the course materials."

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 The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi with these activities:

Attend Raspberry Pi meetups or conferences

Show steps

Connect with other Raspberry Pi enthusiasts to share knowledge and learn from their experiences.

Show steps

Search for local Raspberry Pi meetups or conferences
Attend an event and engage with the community

Review 'Raspberry Pi User Guide'

Show steps

Gain a comprehensive understanding of Raspberry Pi's capabilities and applications.

View Raspberry Pi User Guide on Amazon

Show steps

Read chapters relevant to the course topics

Review Linux basics

Show steps

Review the basics of Linux to build a strong foundation for working with the Raspberry Pi.

Browse courses on Linux

Show steps

Review online tutorials on Linux basics
Complete a Linux基礎知識入門 course

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Join a Raspberry Pi study group or discussion forum

Show steps

Engage with fellow learners to clarify concepts, share ideas, and solve problems.

Show steps

Find a Raspberry Pi study group or discussion forum
Participate in discussions and ask questions

Follow Python tutorials for Raspberry Pi

Show steps

Enhance your Python skills tailored to Raspberry Pi applications.

Show steps

Search for beginner-friendly Python tutorials for Raspberry Pi
Follow a comprehensive course on Python for Raspberry Pi

Practice Python code exercises

Show steps

Strengthen your understanding of Python by solving coding challenges.

Show steps

Find online Python code exercises
Solve programming problems on platforms like HackerRank

Contribute to Raspberry Pi open-source projects

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of Raspberry Pi's ecosystem and contribute to its community.

Show steps

Explore open-source projects related to Raspberry Pi
Identify a project to contribute to
Submit code contributions or documentation improvements

Career center

Learners who complete The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

IoT Developer

An IoT Developer designs, develops, and maintains IoT devices and applications. These devices and applications are typically used to collect and analyze data from the physical world. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course can be helpful for this role because it provides a foundation in IoT development and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for IoT Developer

Embedded Software Engineer

An Embedded Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains embedded software systems. These systems are typically used in devices such as medical equipment, industrial machinery, and consumer electronics. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course can be helpful for this role because it provides a foundation in embedded systems programming and hardware interfacing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Software Engineer

Hardware Engineer

A Hardware Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains electronic hardware systems. These systems are typically used in devices such as computers, smartphones, and medical equipment. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in electronics and hardware interfacing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer

Robotics Engineer

A Robotics Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains robotic systems. These systems are typically used in manufacturing, healthcare, and space exploration. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in embedded systems programming and hardware interfacing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Computer Vision Engineer

A Computer Vision Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains computer vision systems. These systems are typically used in security, surveillance, and medical imaging. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in image processing and machine learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Vision Engineer

Mobile Developer

A Mobile Developer designs, develops, and maintains mobile applications. These mobile applications are typically used on smartphones and tablets. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in mobile development and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mobile Developer

Game Developer

A Game Developer designs, develops, tests, and maintains video games. These video games are typically played on consoles, computers, and mobile devices. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in game development and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Developer

Cybersecurity Analyst

A Cybersecurity Analyst protects computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in cybersecurity and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Network Engineer

A Network Engineer designs, develops, and maintains computer networks. These networks are typically used to connect computers, printers, and other devices. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in networking and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Systems Administrator

A Systems Administrator installs, configures, and maintains computer systems. These systems are typically used to store and process data, run applications, and provide access to the internet. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in systems administration and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Technical Support Specialist

A Technical Support Specialist provides technical support to users of computer systems and software. This support may include troubleshooting problems, answering questions, and providing documentation. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in technical support and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Support Specialist

Machine Learning Engineer

A Machine Learning Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains machine learning systems. These systems are typically used in a variety of applications, such as fraud detection, medical diagnosis, and speech recognition. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in machine learning and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist collects, analyzes, and interprets data to extract meaningful insights. These insights are typically used to make informed decisions about products, marketing campaigns, and business strategies. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in data analysis and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Software Developer

A Software Developer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications. These applications are typically used in a variety of industries, such as healthcare, finance, and retail. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in software development and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Web Developer

A Web Developer designs, develops, and maintains websites and web applications. These websites and web applications are typically used to provide information, products, and services to users. The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi course may be useful for this role because it provides a foundation in web development and Python programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Reading list

We've selected seven 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 The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi.

Raspberry Pi User Guide

Save

Is the official guide to the Raspberry Pi, providing detailed instructions on how to set up and use the device. It is an essential resource for anyone who is new to the Raspberry Pi and wants to learn how to use it to its full potential.

The Raspberry Pi Platform and Python Programming for the Raspberry Pi

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Hands-on raspberry pi and python basics

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

14-Day Refund Guarantee

Verified Academic & Industry Partner