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C Programming

Language Foundations

Petra Bonfert-Taylor and Rémi Sharrock

5.0

Based on 2 ratings

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Petra Bonfert-Taylor and Rémi Sharrock

Inthis course, part of the C Programming with Linux Professional Certificate program,you will learn to use logical statements and arrays in C. Logical statements are used for decision-making with follow-up instructions, based on conditions you define. Arrays are used to store, keep track of, and organize larger amounts of data. You will furthermore implement some fundamental algorithms to search and sort data.

Within moments of this course, you will be coding hands-on in a new browser tool developed specifically for this course, receiving instant feedback on your code. No need to install anything!

Why learn C? Not only is it one of the most stable and popular programming languages in the world, it's also used to power almost all electronic devices. The C programming language represents one of the building blocks of modern computer information technology.

By the end of this course, you will have gained experience with programming concepts that are foundational to any programming language and be one step closer to a career in computer engineering.

This course has received financial support from the Patrick & Lina Drahi Foundation.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

Use logical conditions to control the flow of a program via branch statements (if-else), repetition (for or while loop) and nesting of these structures
Create and modify arrays to store integer and floating point numbers and explain how arrays are organized in memory

Create null-terminated arrays of characters to store and modify strings (of characters)
Sort and search arrays of numbers and characters using bubble sort, selection sort, linear search and bisection

Use logical conditions to control the flow of a program via branch statements (if-else), repetition (for or while loop) and nesting of these structures
Create and modify arrays to store integer and floating point numbers and explain how arrays are organized in memory
Create null-terminated arrays of characters to store and modify strings (of characters)
Sort and search arrays of numbers and characters using bubble sort, selection sort, linear search and bisection

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops logical thinking and problem-solving skills, foundational concepts for computer science

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in computer programming

Suitable for learners interested in computer engineering careers

Offers hands-on coding experience in a specialized browser tool designed for the course

Provides immediate feedback on coding exercises, aiding learning and progress tracking

No software installation required, improving accessibility and ease of use

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Reviews summary

Foundations in c with hands-on practice

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in C programming fundamentals. Many appreciate the browser-based coding environment, which eliminates setup hurdles and allows for immediate practice. Students found the coverage of logical statements, arrays, and basic algorithms like searching and sorting to be particularly strong and the hands-on exercises crucial for reinforcing learning. While the explanations are generally clear and the pace is well-suited for beginners, some reviewers felt the course could benefit from more depth for those with prior programming experience or seeking advanced topics. Overall, it's seen as a highly effective first step into C, especially valuable for those pursuing the related professional certificate.

Coding labs are easy to access and use effectively

"The built-in browser environment made coding easy without any installation hassle, which was a huge plus."

"I loved that I didn't need to set up anything on my machine; the online tool worked great for practice."

"Doing the exercises directly in the browser was super convenient and user-friendly for a beginner."

Lectures explain complex topics clearly and concisely

"The instructor did a great job explaining some tricky C concepts simply and effectively."

"Found the lectures very easy to follow and understand, which is crucial for new programmers."

"Explanations were clear, which made learning much less frustrating than other courses I've tried."

Hands-on exercises reinforce learning effectively

"The coding assignments were challenging but absolutely essential for practice and understanding."

"Doing the labs is the best way to really learn the concepts taught in the lectures, they are well-designed."

"Found the practical exercises very useful for applying what I learned immediately after the videos."

Provides a strong base in core C concepts effectively

"This course really helped solidify my understanding of C fundamentals like arrays and loops."

"Gained a solid grasp of logical statements and how arrays work in memory. It's a great starting point."

"Excellent introduction to the foundational building blocks of C programming; covers the basics well."

Pace is good for beginners, may lack depth for others

"As a complete beginner, I found the pace just right, not too fast or slow, very digestible."

"Someone with prior programming experience might find parts of it a bit too basic or slow-paced."

"Could use more in-depth coverage on complex topics or specific use cases for C programming."

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 C Programming: Language Foundations with these activities:

Connect with experienced C programmers

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Reach out to experienced C programmers to gain valuable insights, advice, and support throughout your learning journey.

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Attend industry events or online forums related to C programming
Reach out to C programming professionals on LinkedIn or other social media platforms
Ask questions and seek guidance from experienced C programmers

Review the C syntax

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Refresh your knowledge of the C syntax to prepare for the course and ensure a solid foundation.

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Read through a C syntax summary
Review examples of C code
Try writing some simple C programs

Organize your course notes and materials

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Stay organized by compiling course notes, handouts, and other materials in one place.

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Gather your course notes, handouts, and other materials
Create a system for organizing and storing these materials
Review your materials regularly to reinforce your learning

One other activity

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Read 'C Programming: A Modern Approach' by K.N. King

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Expand your knowledge of C programming concepts by reading a comprehensive and well-regarded book that provides a modern perspective on the language.

View C Programming: A Modern Approach, 2nd Edition on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book
Read through the chapters and make notes
Complete the exercises and assignments provided in the book

Career center

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

Software Developer

As a Software Developer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in the C programming language, which is essential for building efficient and reliable software. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills are essential for any aspiring Software Developer.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help businesses make informed decisions. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in data analysis concepts, such as data sorting and searching. You will learn how to use logical statements to filter and organize data, and how to use arrays to store and manage large datasets. These skills will be invaluable in your role as a Data Analyst.

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Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists are responsible for designing and developing new computer systems and technologies. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of computer science, such as data structures and algorithms. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills are essential for any aspiring Computer Scientist.

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Web Developer

Web Developers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining websites. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in the C programming language, which is essential for building efficient and reliable web applications. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills will be invaluable in your role as a Web Developer.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in data management concepts, such as data sorting and searching. You will learn how to use logical statements to filter and organize data, and how to use arrays to store and manage large datasets. These skills will be invaluable in your role as a Database Administrator.

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Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts are responsible for analyzing and designing computer systems. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of computer science, such as data structures and algorithms. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills are essential for any aspiring Systems Analyst.

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Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from unauthorized access. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in computer security concepts, such as data encryption and authentication. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills will be invaluable in your role as an Information Security Analyst.

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Network Administrator

Network Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in networking concepts, such as IP addressing and routing. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills will be invaluable in your role as a Network Administrator.

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Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers are responsible for writing and maintaining computer programs. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in the C programming language, which is essential for building efficient and reliable software. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills will be invaluable in your role as a Computer Programmer.

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Software Tester

Software Testers are responsible for testing and evaluating software applications. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in software testing concepts, such as test planning and execution. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills will be invaluable in your role as a Software Tester.

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IT Support Specialist

IT Support Specialists are responsible for providing technical support to users of computer systems. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in computer support concepts, such as troubleshooting and problem-solving. You will learn how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program, create and modify arrays to store data, and sort and search arrays using various algorithms. These skills will be invaluable in your role as an IT Support Specialist.

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Data Entry Clerk

Data Entry Clerks are responsible for entering data into computer systems. This course may provide you with some helpful skills for this role, such as how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program and how to create and modify arrays to store data. However, this course does not cover all of the skills required for this role, such as data entry speed and accuracy.

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Computer Operator

Computer Operators are responsible for operating and maintaining computer systems. This course may provide you with some helpful skills for this role, such as how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program and how to create and modify arrays to store data. However, this course does not cover all of the skills required for this role, such as system administration and maintenance.

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Office Administrator

Office Administrators are responsible for providing administrative support to office staff. This course may provide you with some helpful skills for this role, such as how to use logical statements to control the flow of a program and how to create and modify arrays to store data. However, this course does not cover all of the skills required for this role, such as office management and customer service.

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Receptionist

Receptionists are responsible for greeting and assisting visitors. This course does not provide any skills that are directly relevant to this role.

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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 C Programming: Language Foundations.

The Art of Computer Programming, Volume 4B

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A monumental work on computer programming, covering topics like algorithms, data structures, and numerical methods. Provides a comprehensive and in-depth treatment of fundamental concepts.

Slipcase for The Art of Computer Programming,...

Kindle Edition

$$$

WebAssembly: The Definitive Guide

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Considered a classic in the field, this book provides a definitive guide to the C programming language. Written by the creators of C, it serves as an invaluable resource for programmers of all levels.

C Programming

Language Foundations

What's inside

Learning objectives

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Foundations in c with hands-on practice

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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