Teach computing: moving from Scratch to Python from edX

Block-based programming languages like Scratch make it simple to learn and teach programming. But once your students have mastered it, it's time to move on to a text-based programming language such as Python. This online course will show you how.

You’ll discover how to transfer the programming and thinking skills learnt while using Scratch to Python. You’ll look at how to help your learners develop basic text-based programming skills, understand error messages and debug code.

The course will show you the power of text-based programming and give you the tools to support your students' transition.

What you'll learn

Over the next four weeks, you will:

Think about why it is worth moving from a block-based programming language to a text-based programming language
Compare the syntax of Scratch and Python, and turn Scratch programs into Python programs
Consider the challenges of introducing Python in your classroom, including the different types of errors that can occur, and explore how you can support your learners to create text-based programs
Explore how Python's built-in functions and standard libraries can make writing programs easier
Create an action plan for helping your students transition to a text-based language

What's inside

Learning objectives

Think about
it is worth moving from a block-based programming language to a text-based programming language
Compare the syntax of scratch and python, and turn scratch programs into python programs

Consider the challenges of introducing python in your classroom, including the different types of errors that can occur, and explore how you can support your learners to create text-based programs
Explore how python's built-in functions and standard libraries can make writing programs easier
Create an action plan for helping your students transition to a text-based language

Think about
it is worth moving from a block-based programming language to a text-based programming language
Compare the syntax of scratch and python, and turn scratch programs into python programs
Consider the challenges of introducing python in your classroom, including the different types of errors that can occur, and explore how you can support your learners to create text-based programs
Explore how python's built-in functions and standard libraries can make writing programs easier
Create an action plan for helping your students transition to a text-based language

Syllabus

You will cover:

Tools to support children’s transition from block-based to text-based programming

Programming and thinking skills in Scratch

Basic skills in the Python programming language

Simple error messages in Python syntax, and how to debug code

Understanding the power of text-based programming and what you can create with it

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for teachers with little to no programming experience

Helps teachers and students transition to text-based programming, which is essential for learning more advanced programming concepts and tools

Provides a solid foundation in Python, which is a versatile language used in various industries

Covers debugging techniques, which are crucial for troubleshooting code and solving errors

Provides a clear comparison between Scratch and Python syntax, simplifying the transition

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 Teach computing: moving from Scratch to Python with these activities:

Review Scratch concepts

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Recall and reactivate prior knowledge of block-based programming concepts in Scratch before transitioning to text-based programming.

Browse courses on Scratch

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Revisit the basics of Scratch, including events, control flow, variables, and operators
Work through a few simple Scratch projects to refresh your memory and understanding

Organize your Python learning resources

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Gather and organize relevant Python materials, ensuring easy access to information and improving retention.

Browse courses on Note-Taking

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Create a dedicated folder or notebook for Python notes and resources
Collect online courses, tutorials, and documentation in one central location

Collaborate with peers on Python projects

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Engage in collaborative problem-solving and knowledge sharing to deepen understanding and broaden perspectives in Python programming.

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Form study groups or join online communities for Python learners
Work together on Python projects, sharing ideas, code snippets, and debugging strategies

Two other activities

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Explore Python error messages and debugging

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Gain practical experience in understanding and resolving common error messages encountered in Python code.

Browse courses on Debugging

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Follow online tutorials or documentation on Python error messages and debugging techniques
Introduce deliberate errors into Python code and practice identifying and fixing them

Build a simple Python project

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Apply Python skills to build a tangible project, solidifying understanding and exploring the practical applications of text-based programming.

Browse courses on Game Development

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Choose a project idea that aligns with your interests and skill level
Plan the project, including the features, functionality, and design
Code the project in Python, following best practices and debugging as needed

Career center

Learners who complete Teach computing: moving from Scratch to Python will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Developer

A Software Developer designs, develops, and implements computer software applications. If you are pursuing this career path, it is likely that you will need to know Python. This course can help you learn about the Python programming language, giving you the tools you need to transition into the Software Developer role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst uses data to help a company improve its performance. This course can help you develop the Python programming skills you need to access and interpret data. With this knowledge, you can transition into a role as a Data Analyst and help companies make smarter decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Web Developer

A Web Developer designs and builds websites. If you are interested in this career, it is likely that you will use Python to make your websites interactive. This course can help you learn the Python programming language and apply it to web development. With these skills, you can transition into a role as a Web Developer and create dynamic and engaging websites.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Computer Scientist

A Computer Scientist explores the theory and practice of computation. Python is one of the most popular programming languages used by Computer Scientists in both research and development. By taking this course, you will learn Python programming skills that will serve you well in your future research and development work in a wide range of roles in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer develops, maintains, and tests software systems. Python is widely used in software development, so this course can serve as a valuable foundation for a career as a Software Engineer. Taking this course can help you build a strong understanding of the Python programming language, and equip you to develop and maintain software systems effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist analyzes and interprets data to help organizations make better decisions. Python is an essential tool for Data Scientists, as it provides powerful libraries for data manipulation and analysis. This course can help you build a solid foundation in Python programming, enabling you to transition into a successful career as a Data Scientist.

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Machine Learning Engineer

A Machine Learning Engineer designs and builds machine learning models. Python is a popular language in this field, as it provides libraries specifically tailored for machine learning tasks. By taking this course, you will gain a strong understanding of Python programming principles and learn how to apply them in the context of machine learning, enhancing your competitiveness in this growing field.

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AI Engineer

An AI Engineer designs, builds, and maintains AI systems. Python is a versatile language that enables AI Engineers to work with a variety of tools and frameworks. This course can help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, providing you with the skills to succeed in this rapidly growing field.

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Robotics Engineer

A Robotics Engineer designs, builds, and maintains robots. Python is becoming increasingly popular in robotics, as it provides powerful tools for controlling and simulating robots. Taking this course can equip you with the Python programming knowledge you need to develop and maintain cutting-edge robotic systems.

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Computer Programmer

A Computer Programmer writes and maintains computer programs. Python is a widely-used programming language, so this course can provide you with a valuable foundation for a career as a Computer Programmer. By learning Python programming principles, you will be well-equipped to develop and maintain software systems in a variety of industries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Data Engineer

A Data Engineer designs and builds data pipelines. Python is a popular language in this field, as it provides powerful tools for data manipulation and analysis. Taking this course can equip you with the Python programming skills you need to build and maintain efficient data pipelines.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

IT Support Specialist

An IT Support Specialist provides technical support to computer users. Python is a versatile language that can be used for a variety of tasks, including troubleshooting and scripting. By taking this course, you will gain a strong foundation in Python programming, enabling you to provide better support to computer users in various settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Support Specialist

Network Engineer

A Network Engineer designs, builds, and maintains computer networks. Python is becoming increasingly popular in this field, as it provides powerful tools for network automation and management. This course can help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, enabling you to succeed in this growing field.

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Database Administrator

A Database Administrator manages and maintains databases. Python is a versatile language that can be used for a variety of database-related tasks, including data extraction and analysis. By taking this course, you will gain a strong foundation in Python programming, enabling you to manage and maintain databases more effectively.

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Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst protects computer systems from unauthorized access and attacks. Python is becoming increasingly popular in this field, as it provides powerful tools for security analysis and incident response. By taking this course, you can gain a strong foundation in Python programming and learn how to apply it to information security, enhancing your competitiveness in this critical field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst