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David Joyner
Building on your prior knowledge of variables and operators, this course gets into the meat of programming. Organized into five chapters, this course starts by covering the fundamentals of what control structures are and what they do, then moves on to four common control structures in Python. Conditionals let you modify what your program does based on the values of incoming variables. Loops let you repeat tasks for multiple values or while certain conditions hold true. Functions let you encapsulate complex reasoning into reusable chunks of code. Error handling lets you intelligently recover from anticipated and unanticipated glitches.
Read more
Building on your prior knowledge of variables and operators, this course gets into the meat of programming. Organized into five chapters, this course starts by covering the fundamentals of what control structures are and what they do, then moves on to four common control structures in Python. Conditionals let you modify what your program does based on the values of incoming variables. Loops let you repeat tasks for multiple values or while certain conditions hold true. Functions let you encapsulate complex reasoning into reusable chunks of code. Error handling lets you intelligently recover from anticipated and unanticipated glitches.
Read more
Building on your prior knowledge of variables and operators, this course gets into the meat of programming. Organized into five chapters, this course starts by covering the fundamentals of what control structures are and what they do, then moves on to four common control structures in Python. Conditionals let you modify what your program does based on the values of incoming variables. Loops let you repeat tasks for multiple values or while certain conditions hold true. Functions let you encapsulate complex reasoning into reusable chunks of code. Error handling lets you intelligently recover from anticipated and unanticipated glitches.
By the end of this course, you'll be able to write complex programs in Python that perform useful reasoning. For example, you could write a program that calculates your weight on other planets, calculates the standard deviation of a series of numbers, or checks for the validity of an incoming password.
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.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/jo2gyj/computing
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What's inside
Learning objectives
- How control structures can affect how other lines of code run.
- Conditionals, including if, else-if, and else, for complex reasoning.
- Loops, including for loops, for-each loops, and while loops for repeated behaviors.
- Functions, for encapsulating code into reusable chunks.
- Error handling, for anticipating and resolving expected errors.
- How control structures can affect how other lines of code run.
- Conditionals, including if, else-if, and else, for complex reasoning.
- Loops, including for loops, for-each loops, and while loops for repeated behaviors.
- Functions, for encapsulating code into reusable chunks.
- Error handling, for anticipating and resolving expected errors.
Syllabus
Chapter 1: Control Structures. The basic role of control structures in general: lines of code that control other lines of code, determining when they execute.
Read more
Syllabus
Chapter 1: Control Structures. The basic role of control structures in general: lines of code that control other lines of code, determining when they execute.
Read more
Chapter 2: Conditionals. Building complex reasoning into our code by letting it make decisions based on the changing values of variables, like recommending a raincoat if it's going to rain or issuing a passing grade if a student's average is over 70.
Chapter 3. Loops. Building even more complex reasoning with for loops and while loops, both of which repeat certain lines of code over and over for every value in a list or while some condition is true.
Chapter 4. Functions. Encapsulating blocks of code into reusable functions that can be called as needed, including specifying their input and dictating their output.
Chapter 5. Error Handling. Reacting gracefully when anticipated or unanticipated errors occur during your program's execution.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Taught by David Joyner, who has extensive credentials in programming and computer science
Focuses on Python, a popular programming language
Provides a strong foundation in control structures, a fundamental aspect of programming
Covers conditionals, loops, functions, and error handling, offering a comprehensive introduction to programming concepts
Incorporates interactive coding problems and multiple-choice questions for hands-on practice and knowledge reinforcement
May not provide sufficient depth for learners seeking advanced programming knowledge
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Save Computing in Python II: Control Structures to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Python control structures 2
Learners say this "outstanding introduction to Python and computer science" moves at a steady pace and builds on topics from the first course in this series. It covers conditionals, loops, functions, and error handling in a clear and coherent way. Coders appreciate the abundance of practice problems and auto-graded assignments. However, some students note that the timed test may be too challenging for those who are not fast test takers.
Assumes completion of the first course in the series without too much difficulty.
"If you've taken the first course in this series (Python 1), and i have now just completed Computing in Python II: Control Structures."
David Joyner's clear and engaging teaching style makes complex concepts easy to grasp.
"David Joyner does an amazing job at articulating things from different points of view."
"I cannot recommend these series of courses enough. TOP NOTCH!"
Well-structured course with concise videos, clear explanations, and effective repetition.
"The materials are concise, comprehensive, clear and coherent."
"Sections are broken up into small, easy-to-tackle segments."
"Videos are short and concise, the explanations given are easy to understand, and the text book is always available for those that prefer to read vs watch the videos."
Numerous practice problems and graded assessments reinforce concepts and provide real coding experience.
"Most important of all, the course has dozens - maybe hundreds - of exercises and problems that require real coding."
"The sheer amount of practice problems, auto-graded assignments, and the Smartbook is what made this course great for me."
"This course does just about everything right. Sections are broken up into small, easy-to-tackle segments."
Some students find the 2-hour time limit for the timed test to be stressful and challenging.
"The only frustration I had was the fact that I am a slow test taker and the 2 hours provided for the timed test was both too little and it generated a lot of anxiety for me."
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 II: Control Structures with these
activities:
Read 'Automate the Boring Stuff with Python'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive introduction to Python and includes several chapters on control structures.
View
Automate the Boring Stuff with Python, 3rd...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
-
Read the book, taking notes on the key concepts.
-
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.
-
Apply what you have learned by writing your own code.
Practice Control Structures
Show steps
Practice solving coding problems that involve control structures to improve your understanding of how they work.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
-
Find a set of coding problems that cover different types of control structures.
-
Start solving the problems, one at a time.
-
If you get stuck, refer to the course materials or seek help from a tutor.
-
Once you have solved a problem, review your solution to identify any areas where you can improve.
Follow Tutorials on Control Structures
Show steps
Watch video tutorials that explain how to use control structures effectively in Python.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
-
Find a set of video tutorials that cover different types of control structures.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts.
-
Try to apply what you have learned by writing your own code.
-
If you get stuck, refer to the course materials or seek help from a tutor.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Join a Study Group
Show steps
Join a study group with other students who are taking the same course. This will give you an opportunity to discuss the material with others, ask questions, and get help with difficult concepts.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
-
Find a study group that meets regularly and is a good fit for your learning style.
-
Attend the study group meetings regularly and participate actively.
-
Ask questions and share your own insights with the group.
-
Help other students in the group who may be struggling with the material.
Create a Code Snippet Library
Show steps
Create a library of code snippets that demonstrate how to use different control structures in Python. This will help you reinforce your understanding and provide a valuable resource for future reference.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
-
Start by identifying the different types of control structures that you want to cover in your library.
-
For each control structure, write a code snippet that demonstrates how to use it.
-
Include comments in your code snippets to explain how they work.
-
Organize your code snippets into a logical structure, such as by control structure type or by the task that they perform.
-
Review your code snippets regularly to ensure that they are up-to-date and accurate.
Participate in Coding Challenges
Show steps
Participate in coding challenges that involve using control structures to solve problems. This will help you test your skills and learn from others.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
-
Find coding challenges that are appropriate for your skill level.
-
Set aside time to work on the challenges.
-
Submit your solutions and review the solutions of others.
-
Identify areas where you can improve your skills.
Develop a Control Structures Project
Show steps
Develop a project that demonstrates your understanding of how to use control structures in Python. This could be a simple game, a data analysis script, or a web application.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
-
Identify a project idea that interests you and that will allow you to demonstrate your skills.
-
Plan out the project, including the different control structures that you will need to use.
-
Develop the project, testing your code as you go.
-
Document your project, including a description of how you used control structures.
-
Share your project with others.
Read 'Automate the Boring Stuff with Python'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive introduction to Python and includes several chapters on control structures.
View
Automate the Boring Stuff with Python, 3rd...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
- Read the book, taking notes on the key concepts.
- Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.
- Apply what you have learned by writing your own code.
Practice Control Structures
Show steps
Practice solving coding problems that involve control structures to improve your understanding of how they work.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a set of coding problems that cover different types of control structures.
- Start solving the problems, one at a time.
- If you get stuck, refer to the course materials or seek help from a tutor.
- Once you have solved a problem, review your solution to identify any areas where you can improve.
Follow Tutorials on Control Structures
Show steps
Watch video tutorials that explain how to use control structures effectively in Python.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a set of video tutorials that cover different types of control structures.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts.
- Try to apply what you have learned by writing your own code.
- If you get stuck, refer to the course materials or seek help from a tutor.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Join a Study Group
Show steps
Join a study group with other students who are taking the same course. This will give you an opportunity to discuss the material with others, ask questions, and get help with difficult concepts.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group that meets regularly and is a good fit for your learning style.
- Attend the study group meetings regularly and participate actively.
- Ask questions and share your own insights with the group.
- Help other students in the group who may be struggling with the material.
Create a Code Snippet Library
Show steps
Create a library of code snippets that demonstrate how to use different control structures in Python. This will help you reinforce your understanding and provide a valuable resource for future reference.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Start by identifying the different types of control structures that you want to cover in your library.
- For each control structure, write a code snippet that demonstrates how to use it.
- Include comments in your code snippets to explain how they work.
- Organize your code snippets into a logical structure, such as by control structure type or by the task that they perform.
- Review your code snippets regularly to ensure that they are up-to-date and accurate.
Participate in Coding Challenges
Show steps
Participate in coding challenges that involve using control structures to solve problems. This will help you test your skills and learn from others.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find coding challenges that are appropriate for your skill level.
- Set aside time to work on the challenges.
- Submit your solutions and review the solutions of others.
- Identify areas where you can improve your skills.
Develop a Control Structures Project
Show steps
Develop a project that demonstrates your understanding of how to use control structures in Python. This could be a simple game, a data analysis script, or a web application.
Browse courses on
Control Structures
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a project idea that interests you and that will allow you to demonstrate your skills.
- Plan out the project, including the different control structures that you will need to use.
- Develop the project, testing your code as you go.
- Document your project, including a description of how you used control structures.
- Share your project with others.
Career center
Learners who complete Computing in Python II: Control Structures will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, test, and maintain software applications. They work closely with other engineers and stakeholders to gather requirements, create prototypes, and deliver high-quality software products. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course covers fundamental programming concepts and control structures, which are essential for building robust and reliable software applications.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers build and deploy machine learning models to solve complex problems. They use programming languages, such as Python, to develop and train machine learning algorithms. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course provides a solid foundation in Python programming and control structures, which are essential skills for aspiring Machine Learning Engineers.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Professionals in this field are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to extract meaningful insights. They utilize various programming languages and statistical techniques to transform raw data into actionable information. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course provides a strong foundation in programming logic and data manipulation techniques, which are essential skills for aspiring Data Scientists.
Web Developer
Web Developer
Web Developers create and maintain websites and web applications. They use programming languages, such as Python, to develop the front-end and back-end of websites. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, including control structures and error handling, which are essential skills for aspiring Web Developers.
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmer
The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Computer Programmers. By learning about control structures, such as if/else statements and loops, students can gain a solid foundation in programming logic and problem-solving. The course also covers functions and error handling, which are essential concepts for writing clean and efficient code.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends and patterns. They use statistical techniques and programming languages to extract meaningful insights from data. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Data Analysts, as it provides a foundation in Python programming and data manipulation techniques.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts provide financial advice to individuals and organizations. They analyze financial data, make investment recommendations, and develop financial plans. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Financial Analysts, as it provides a foundation in Python programming and data analysis techniques.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts gather and analyze business requirements to improve business processes and systems. They use a variety of techniques, including data analysis, process mapping, and financial modeling. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Business Analysts, as it provides a foundation in Python programming and data analysis techniques.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data and make investment decisions. They typically have a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and programming. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Quantitative Analysts, as it provides a foundation in Python programming and data manipulation techniques.
Actuary
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematical and statistical models to assess risk and uncertainty. They work in a variety of industries, such as insurance, finance, and healthcare. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Actuaries, as it provides a foundation in programming logic and problem-solving.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to solve complex problems in a variety of industries, such as manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare. They work closely with stakeholders to define problems, develop solutions, and implement recommendations. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Operations Research Analysts, as it provides a foundation in programming logic and problem-solving.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for planning, developing, and launching new products. They work closely with engineers, designers, and marketers to bring products to market. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Product Managers, as it provides a foundation in programming logic and problem-solving.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. They work closely with subject matter experts to gather information and develop clear and concise documentation. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Technical Writers, as it provides a foundation in writing clear and concise documentation.
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designers create and evaluate user interfaces for websites, apps, and other digital products. They work closely with users to understand their needs and design interfaces that are easy to use and enjoyable. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring User Experience Designers, as it provides a foundation in programming logic and problem-solving.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and control projects to achieve specific goals. They work closely with stakeholders to define project scope, schedule, and budget. The Computing in Python II: Control Structures course can be helpful for aspiring Project Managers, as it provides a foundation in planning and problem-solving techniques.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jo2gyj/computing
Reading list
We've selected 14 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 II: Control Structures.
A comprehensive guide to Python programming, covering the basics of the language as well as more advanced topics such as object-oriented programming and data analysis.
Save
A beginner-friendly introduction to Python programming that uses a visual and interactive approach to teach the basics of the language.
A practical guide to using Python to automate everyday tasks, such as web scraping, data analysis, and system administration.
Save
A textbook that introduces the fundamental concepts of computer science using Python as the programming language.
Save
A guide to writing clear, concise, and effective Python code.
A collection of recipes for solving common programming problems in Python.
Save
A free online textbook that teaches the fundamental concepts of computer science using Python as the programming language.
A guide to using Python for data analysis and visualization.
A guide to using Python for machine learning.
A guide to using Python for deep learning.
Save
A comprehensive reference guide to the Python programming language.
A guide to the Python Standard Library, which provides a wide range of modules and functions for common programming tasks.
A guide to using pytest, a popular testing framework for Python.
A guide to using design patterns in Python.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jo2gyj/computing
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Effort
9 to 10 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
The Georgia Institute of Technology
Instructor
David Joyner
Sessions
January 1, 2026
- December 31, 2026
January 1, 2025
- January 1, 2026
January 1, 2024
- December 31, 2024
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Introduction to Python Programming. It's comprised of four courses:
- Computing in Python I: Fundamentals and Procedural Programming
- Computing in Python II: Control Structures (viewing)
- Computing in Python IV: Objects & Algorithms
- Computing in Python III: Data Structures
Good to know
Taught by David Joyner, who has extensive credentials in programming and computer science
Focuses on Python, a popular programming language
Provides a strong foundation in control structures, a fundamental aspect of programming
Covers conditionals, loops, functions, and error handling, offering a comprehensive introduction to programming concepts
Incorporates interactive coding problems and multiple-choice questions for hands-on practice and knowledge reinforcement
May not provide sufficient depth for learners seeking advanced programming knowledge
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