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Python Programming Fundamentals

Andrew D. Hilton, Nick Eubank, Genevieve M. Lipp, and Kyle Bradbury

This introductory course is designed for beginners and individuals with limited programming experience who want to embark on their software development or data science journey using Python. Throughout the course, learners will gain a solid understanding of algorithmic thinking, Python syntax, code testing, debugging techniques, and modular code development--essential skills for a successful career in software engineering, development, or data science.

By the end of this course, you will learn to:

- Gain a stepwise approach to problem-solving using algorithms and programming logic.

By the end of this course, you will learn to:

- Gain a stepwise approach to problem-solving using algorithms and programming logic.

- Apply common functions, conditional statements, and loops to build Python scripts and programs.

- Work with the VS Code programming environment to enhance coding proficiency.

- Use testing and debugging strategies to ensure code reliability.

- Perform logical and mathematical operations on datasets.

In the final week of the course you will apply your new algorithm design and programming skills to a data analysis problem: analyzing heart rate data.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Algorithm Design

This week, you will learn best practices for developing code in any language by beginning with an algorithm: a stepwise approach to solving a problem. You’ll then apply the concepts by developing your own algorithms and properly identifying when to use specific data types in Python.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Appropriate for novices seeking an introduction to programming with Python

Emphasizes core skills essential for a career in software engineering, development, or data science

Instructors are not explicitly recognized authorities in their respective fields

Course content falls short of being comprehensive

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Reviews summary

Foundational python for beginners & careers

According to students, this course is an excellent starting point for absolute beginners aiming for careers in software development or data science. Many found the content to be exceptionally clear and digestible, with the instructor praised for simplifying complex concepts. The course's well-structured progression from algorithms to practical coding is a significant strength, complemented by engaging hands-on coding exercises and projects that help solidify understanding. The VS Code integration is also highlighted as a helpful feature. While largely positive, some learners with prior programming experience found the pacing a bit slow, and a few desired more advanced topics or in-depth coverage. Overall, it successfully builds fundamental Python skills for real-world application.

Some found it too theoretical, others praised its practical focus.

"Very disappointed. The course is too theoretical and doesn't provide enough real-world examples for my liking."

"I found it hard to stay engaged when the explanations were too abstract for a 'fundamentals' course."

"I particularly appreciated the practical examples and the emphasis on modular code; it was very helpful for real-world application."

Helpful introduction to the VS Code environment for coding.

"The VS Code setup section was incredibly helpful, as I had never used it before, making the initial setup seamless."

"I appreciated the practical guidance on using VS Code, which is a great tool for development and widely used in the industry."

"The VS Code integration was a nice touch and made getting started with the coding environment much easier for me."

Provides a clear, step-by-step progression from logic to code.

"The progression from algorithms to actual coding is well-structured and easy to follow, making the learning process smooth."

"I liked the structure and how it builds up concepts step-by-step, which made complex topics easier to grasp."

"It definitely set me up for further study in data science with its methodical approach and clear guidance on fundamentals."

Focuses on hands-on coding and real-world problem-solving.

"I especially loved the hands-on coding exercises; they really helped solidify my understanding of Python."

"The final data analysis project was engaging and a good way to apply what I learned immediately."

"The hands-on labs and projects are truly practical and helped me get started with Python scripts efficiently."

Ideal for new learners, simplifying complex Python concepts effectively.

"This course was absolutely fantastic for a complete beginner like me! The instructor explains complex concepts in a very simple, digestible way."

"As someone completely new to programming, this course was a lifesaver. The instructor's pacing was just right, and the exercises built confidence."

"I found this course made Python accessible for me, and I had no prior experience at all, which was great."

May feel slow for those with some prior programming knowledge.

"I felt some parts were a bit slow-paced, especially if you have any prior programming exposure and can pick things up quickly."

"This course is good for absolute beginners, but for someone with a little experience, it drags on too much."

"I hoped for more depth in certain areas, as the basics were covered too slowly for my preferred learning pace."

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 Python Programming Fundamentals with these activities:

Review basic math skills

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Recall math skills covered in previous coursework.

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Review fundamental math operations including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
Practice solving algebraic equations and inequalities.
Review trigonometric functions and identities.
Brush up on basic calculus concepts like limits, derivatives, and integrals.

Read 'Head First Python'

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Gain a clear and engaging introduction to Python concepts.

View Head First Python: A Learner's Guide to the... on Amazon

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Read and understand the concepts presented in the book.
Complete the exercises and activities to reinforce your understanding.

Complete Python tutorials

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Develop a strong foundation in Python syntax and programming concepts.

Browse courses on Python

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Follow official Python tutorials or online courses.
Complete hands-on exercises and coding challenges.

Five other activities

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Attend a Python workshop

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Learn from experts and connect with other Python enthusiasts.

Browse courses on Python

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Identify and register for Python workshops relevant to your interests.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions.
Network with other attendees and learn from their experiences.

Solve Python coding problems

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Apply Python skills to solve coding problems and improve problem-solving abilities.

Browse courses on Python

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Attempt coding problems from websites like LeetCode or HackerRank.
Focus on understanding the problem and developing an efficient solution.
Test and debug code to ensure accuracy.
Review solutions and learn from successful approaches.

Join a Python study group

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Collaborate with peers, share knowledge, and improve your understanding.

Browse courses on Python

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Find or create a Python study group with other students.
Meet regularly to discuss course material, work on projects, and help each other.
Review each other's code and provide constructive feedback.

Create a Python project

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Apply Python skills to build a project that demonstrates understanding and creativity.

Browse courses on Python

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Identify a problem or idea that you want to solve or implement.
Design and plan the project, including the features and functionality.
Develop the project using Python, focusing on code quality and efficiency.
Test and debug the project to ensure it meets the desired requirements.
Document the project, including its purpose, design, and implementation.

Participate in Python hackathons or coding competitions

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Challenge yourself and collaborate with others to solve complex programming problems.

Browse courses on Python

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Find and register for Python hackathons or coding competitions.
Team up with other participants to form a team.
Collaborate on developing a solution to the given problem.
Present your solution and compete with other teams.
Reflect on your experience and learn from the feedback of judges.

Career center

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

Software Engineer

As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in software development today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential software engineering tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Software Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use their knowledge of programming, mathematics, and statistics to extract insights from data. This course will help you develop the programming skills you need to be successful as a Data Scientist. You will learn how to gather, clean, and analyze data, and you will gain experience with essential data science tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Data Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in web development today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential web development tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Web Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Data Analyst

Data Analysts use their knowledge of programming, mathematics, and statistics to analyze data and identify trends. This course will help you develop the programming skills you need to be successful as a Data Analyst. You will learn how to gather, clean, and analyze data, and you will gain experience with essential data analysis tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Data Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and test software applications. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in software development today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential software development tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Software Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Data Engineer

Data Engineers design, build, and maintain data pipelines. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in data engineering today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential data engineering tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Data Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers design and develop machine learning models. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in machine learning today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential machine learning tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Machine Learning Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts use their knowledge of mathematics, statistics, and programming to develop and implement financial models. This course will help you develop the programming skills you need to be successful as a Quantitative Analyst. You will learn how to gather, clean, and analyze data, and you will gain experience with essential financial modeling tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Quantitative Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use their knowledge of business processes and data analysis to identify and solve business problems. This course will help you develop the programming skills you need to be successful as a Business Analyst. You will learn how to gather, clean, and analyze data, and you will gain experience with essential business analysis tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Business Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. This course will help you develop the programming skills you need to be successful as a Product Manager. You will learn how to gather, clean, and analyze data, and you will gain experience with essential product management tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Product Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of projects. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in project management today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential project management tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Project Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in systems analysis today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential systems analysis tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Systems Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of databases. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in database administration today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential database administration tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Database Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Network Administrator

Network Administrators are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of computer networks. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in network administration today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential network administration tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Network Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Computer Support Specialist

Computer Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computers and software. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python programming, which is one of the most popular programming languages used in computer support today. You will learn how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code, and you will gain experience with essential computer support tools and techniques. This course will prepare you for a successful career as a Computer Support Specialist.

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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 Python Programming Fundamentals.

Python Crash Course, 2nd Edition

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Provides a comprehensive introduction to Python programming, covering all the topics essential for beginners. It includes hands-on projects to help learners apply their knowledge. It good resource for building a strong foundation in Python.

Python Programming Fundamentals

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Foundational python for beginners & careers

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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