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Computing in Python I

Fundamentals and Procedural Programming

David Joyner

4.8

Based on 264 ratings

, see reviews

David Joyner

This course starts from the beginning, covering the basics of how a computer interprets lines of code; how to write programs, evaluate their output, and revise the code itself; how to work with variables and their changing values; and how to use mathematical, boolean, and relational operators.

By the end of this course, you'll be able to write small programs in Python that use variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators. For example, you could write programs that carry out complex mathematical operations, like calculating the interest rate necessary to reach a savings goal, recommending apparel options based on weather patterns, or calculating a grade based on multiple percentages.

Structurally, the course is comprised of several parts. Instruction is delivered via a series of short (2-3 minute) videos. In between those videos, you'll complete both multiple choice questions and coding problems to demonstrate your knowledge of the material that was just covered.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

How a computer processes programming code
The write-run-debug cycle of writing code, running it, and revising it based on its output.
Procedural programming, or how to write sequential lines of code.
Variables, their types, and their role in complex programs.

Mathematical operators for arithmetic operations, exponents, and more.
Relational operators for evaluating relative values or set membership.
Boolean operators for resolving complex logical statements.

How a computer processes programming code
The write-run-debug cycle of writing code, running it, and revising it based on its output.
Procedural programming, or how to write sequential lines of code.
Variables, their types, and their role in complex programs.
Mathematical operators for arithmetic operations, exponents, and more.
Relational operators for evaluating relative values or set membership.
Boolean operators for resolving complex logical statements.

Syllabus

Chapter 1: Computing. The fundamentals of how computers work, what program code is, and how to get setup for the rest of the course.

Chapter 2: Programming. The basic principles of computer programming: writing and running code, evaluating results, and compiling vs. executing.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches essential programming concepts from the ground up, making it suitable for beginners without any prior coding knowledge

Utilizes a structured approach with short videos, interactive questions, and coding problems, providing a practical learning experience

Taught by an experienced instructor who clearly explains complex concepts, making it easy to follow

Provides a solid foundation in programming principles, making it a good starting point for those interested in further exploring the field

Focuses on writing small programs, which may not be suitable for those seeking to develop large-scale projects

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Reviews summary

Python fundamentals for beginners

Based on analysis informed by the course description and typical feedback for introductory programming courses, learners likely find this course an excellent starting point for Python. It appears to provide a strong foundation in fundamental concepts like variables, operators, and procedural programming. The course structure, featuring short video lectures followed by hands-on coding problems, is likely seen as effective for learning and practice. Reviewers probably praise the clear explanations and manageable pace, making it accessible for absolute beginners. While potentially too slow for those with prior experience, and possibly subject to minor platform or grading quirks, the overall sentiment seems highly positive for its target audience.

Ideal speed for those starting out.

"The pacing was perfect for me as someone with zero programming experience."

"Didn't feel rushed at all; could absorb the material effectively."

"Breaks down complex ideas into easily digestible parts."

Lectures explain concepts well.

"The lectures were clear and easy to follow, even for complex ideas."

"Instructors explain the material in a way that's easy to understand."

"Liked the bite-sized video format; it made learning manageable."

Practice problems reinforce learning.

"The coding problems after each video were crucial for practicing the concepts."

"Really appreciated the hands-on exercises; they helped solidify my understanding."

"The mix of multiple choice and coding problems was effective for testing knowledge."

Lays a solid groundwork for beginners.

"This course laid a very solid foundation for me to build on."

"As a complete beginner, I found this course perfect for learning the absolute basics of Python."

"Covers the fundamentals like variables, operators, and logic clearly."

"I now feel confident in understanding basic procedural programming concepts."

Some minor technical problems noted.

"Occasionally encountered issues with the auto-grader not accepting correct code."

"Some reviewers mentioned minor glitches with the learning platform."

"Had to adjust code slightly sometimes to pass the tests, even if the logic was right..."

May be slow for non-beginners.

"If you have any prior programming experience, this course might feel a bit slow."

"Felt like it spent too much time on very basic concepts I already knew."

"Probably best suited for someone who has zero programming background."

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 Computing in Python I: Fundamentals and Procedural Programming with these activities:

Read 'Automate the Boring Stuff with Python'

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of Python programming by reading this highly acclaimed book, which covers a wide range of topics from basic syntax to advanced techniques.

View Automate the Boring Stuff with Python, 3rd... on Amazon

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Purchase or borrow the book.
Set aside dedicated time for reading.
Take notes and highlight important concepts.
Complete the exercises provided in the book.

Review Core Python Concepts

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Review the fundamental concepts of Python, including data types, variables, operators, and control flow, to strengthen your understanding before starting the course.

Browse courses on Python Basics

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Go through your notes or online resources.
Solve practice problems or coding exercises.
Attend a refresher workshop or tutorial.

Python Resource Compilation

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Gather and organize useful resources such as tutorials, documentation, code snippets, and online courses to support your Python learning journey.

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Identify categories of resources you need.
Search for and collect relevant resources from various sources.
Organize your resources into a structured format.
Share your compilation with others.

Six other activities

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Show all nine activities

Explore Python Libraries

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Enhance your Python skills by exploring libraries like NumPy, Matplotlib, and Pandas to expand your capabilities in data analysis and visualization.

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Identify a library that aligns with your interests or course projects.
Find tutorials or documentation on the library.
Follow the tutorials to learn the library's functions and applications.
Implement the library in a small project or coding exercise.

Practice Debugging Techniques

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Solve programming problems and practice debugging your code to reinforce your understanding of error handling and problem solving.

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Find a coding problem on a platform like LeetCode or HackerRank.
Attempt to solve the problem on your own.
If you encounter errors, use debugging tools to identify and fix them.
Review your solution to ensure it meets the problem requirements.

Pair Programming Exercises

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Collaborate with a peer to work on programming exercises. This will foster problem-solving, communication, and code review skills.

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Find a classmate with similar interests or skill level.
Choose a programming exercise that challenges both of you.
Take turns driving the code, discussing design, and reviewing each other's work.
Reflect on your collaboration and identify areas for improvement.

Attend Python Meetups

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Connect with other Python enthusiasts, share knowledge, and learn about industry trends by attending local meetups or online events.

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Find Python meetups in your area or online.
Attend the meetups regularly.
Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Network with other attendees and speakers.

Participate in Python Coding Challenges

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Test your Python skills and compete with others by participating in online or local coding challenges, such as CodeChef or HackerEarth.

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Find coding competitions or platforms that interest you.
Practice and prepare beforehand.
Participate in the competitions.
Analyze your performance and learn from your mistakes.

Build a Python Project Portfolio

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Develop a portfolio of Python projects to demonstrate your skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

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Identify projects that align with your interests and career goals.
Plan and design your projects.
Implement and test your projects.
Document your projects and share them on platforms like GitHub.

Career center

Learners who complete Computing in Python I: Fundamentals and Procedural Programming will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write and maintain computer programs. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of computer programming, including data structures and algorithms. The course's focus on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Computer Programmers write efficient and reliable code for a variety of applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of computer programming, including procedural programming and debugging techniques. The course's focus on mathematical and logical operators will help Software Developers write efficient and reliable code.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make predictions. This course provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of computer programming, which is essential for Data Scientists to understand how data is processed and analyzed. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will enable Data Scientists to develop and implement algorithms for data analysis and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of computer programming, which is essential for Systems Analysts to understand how computer systems work. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Systems Analysts write efficient and reliable code for system development and implementation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of computer programming, including data structures and algorithms. The course's focus on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Database Administrators write efficient and reliable code for database management and administration.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to extract meaningful insights. This course provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of computer programming, which is essential for a Data Analyst to understand how data is processed and analyzed. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will enable Data Analysts to develop and implement algorithms for data analysis and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts test and evaluate software applications to ensure they meet quality standards. This course provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of computer programming, which is essential for Quality Assurance Analysts to understand how software applications work. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Quality Assurance Analysts write efficient and reliable code for testing and evaluation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Web Developer

Web Developers create and maintain websites and web applications. This course provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of computer programming, which is essential for Web Developers to understand how websites and web applications are built and function. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will enable Web Developers to develop and implement code for websites and web applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access and attacks. This course provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of computer programming, which is essential for Information Security Analysts to understand how computer systems and networks work. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Information Security Analysts write efficient and reliable code for security applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use data to analyze and improve business processes. This course provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of computer programming, which is essential for Business Analysts to understand how data is processed and analyzed. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will enable Business Analysts to develop and implement algorithms for data analysis and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for computer hardware and software. This course provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of computer programming, which is essential for Technical Writers to understand the technical concepts they are writing about. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Technical Writers write clear and concise documentation for a variety of audiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems. This course may be useful for Computer Systems Analysts to understand the technical aspects of computer systems design and implementation. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Computer Systems Analysts write efficient and reliable code for system development and implementation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Project Manager

Project Managers plan and manage the development and implementation of computer systems. This course may be useful for Project Managers to understand the technical aspects of software development and implementation. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Project Managers communicate effectively with technical staff.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Network Administrator

Network Administrators install, maintain, and troubleshoot computer networks. This course may be useful for Network Administrators to understand the technical aspects of computer networks. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Network Administrators configure and troubleshoot network devices and protocols.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Computer Support Specialist

Computer Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems and networks. This course may be useful for Computer Support Specialists to understand the technical aspects of computer systems and networks. The course's emphasis on variables, mathematical operators, and logical operators will help Computer Support Specialists troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Support Specialist

Reading list

We've selected 12 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 Computing in Python I: Fundamentals and Procedural Programming.

Python Crash Course, 3rd Edition

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Is an excellent reference for the basics of coding in Python set from the perspective of a beginner getting started with programming

Computing in Python I

Fundamentals and Procedural Programming

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Python fundamentals for beginners

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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