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Big Ideas in Programming

Expressing Yourself with Python

Barbara Ericson

Harness the power of Python and its programming concepts to express yourself and refine all the work you do with this online course from the University of Michigan.

This course is designed for anyone interested in learning Python. Whether you want to discuss programming with other professionals, teaching others to code or use the language to do your own creative coding, this is the Python course for you!

Harness the power of Python and its programming concepts to express yourself and refine all the work you do with this online course from the University of Michigan.

The big ideas in programming are the building blocks that allow you to create large, interesting, and useful programs. Mastering these programming concepts (variables, loops, strings, conditionals, and functions) and data structures (lists, tuples, and dictionaries) in Python will allow you to really express yourself in the digital space.

The creative coding/programming skills that you acquire in this Python course will allow you to design and produce personalized stories, filter and transform data, use code visualisers, generate art, predict program output, and write better code that works smarter, not harder.

You can expect plenty of interactive practice, engaging assignments, and immediate feedback. This allows you to check your understanding at every step of the way, giving you the chance to really develop your confidence and skill.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1: Functions and Strings

Week 2: Conditionals and Lists

Week 3: Loops with Lists, Strings, and Conditionals

Week 4: Lists Tuples and Dictionaries

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Cultivates a strong understanding of data structures through practice and assignments, enabling confident application in real-world tasks

Engages learners with interactive material to reinforce concepts and enhance understanding

Provides immediate feedback, guiding learners' progress and offering valuable insights

Covers essential Python concepts and programming practices

Builds a solid foundation for coding and computer science principles

Provides ample opportunities for learners to practice and apply their knowledge

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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 Big Ideas in Programming: Expressing Yourself with Python with these activities:

Read 'Python Crash Course'

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Introduces readers to the most fundamental concepts of programming. Book offers several projects for practice.

View Python Crash Course, 3rd Edition: A Hands-On,... on Amazon

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Read the chapters on variables, data types, and flow control and make a list of the key concepts.
Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.
Write a simple Python program that demonstrates your understanding of these concepts.

Join a Python Study Group

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Enhance your learning through collaboration and discussions with fellow students.

Browse courses on Python

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Find or create a study group with other Python learners.
Meet regularly to discuss course concepts, share resources, and work on projects together.
Provide feedback, support, and motivation to your group members.

Solve Python Koans

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Reinforce your understanding of Python syntax and best practices through interactive exercises.

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Read the instructions for the first koan.
Write the code according to the instructions and run it.
Reflect on the feedback and revise your code.

Four other activities

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Follow Tutorials on Python Libraries

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Expand your knowledge and skills by exploring Python libraries and their applications.

Browse courses on Python

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Identify a Python library that aligns with your interests or learning goals.
Find online tutorials or documentation for the library.
Follow the tutorials, experiment with the library's functions, and build a small project that showcases your understanding.

Participate in Python Coding Competitions

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Test your skills, learn from others, and contribute to the Python community.

Browse courses on Python

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Find online coding competitions that focus on Python.
Register for the competition and review the rules and guidelines.
Develop a strategy and write Python code to solve the competition problems.

Contribute to an Open-Source Python Project

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Gain practical experience, learn from experts, and give back to the Python community.

Browse courses on Python

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Find an open-source Python project that aligns with your interests and skills.
Review the project's documentation and codebase.
Identify an area where you can contribute and write a pull request.

Develop a Python Project

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Apply your Python skills to solve a problem or build a tool, enhancing your understanding of the language and its practical applications.

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Identify a problem or idea that you want to solve using Python.
Design and plan your project, including the features and functionalities you want to implement.
Write and test the Python code for your project.

Career center

Learners who complete Big Ideas in Programming: Expressing Yourself with Python will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Programmer Analyst

Programmer Analysts take complex information and processes and turn them into useable applications and programs. With this course, you'll learn the core principles of the popular Python language, gaining a strong foundation to succeed as a Programmer Analyst. The course covers a wide array of topics, such as functions, strings, conditionals, loops, tuples, and dictionaries. The course will guide you through engaging assignments and interactive practice, providing immediate feedback to ensure you can use what you learn in real-world situations. If you wish to make an impact through technology, this course will provide the necessary foundation to develop your skills as a Programmer Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Programmer Analyst

Software Engineer

Software Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of software applications. This course will help you build a solid understanding of Python, one of the most in-demand programming languages in the tech industry. Through hands-on coding exercises and engaging assignments, you will master the core concepts of Python, including variables, data structures, and control flow. Whether you're new to programming or looking to enhance your skills, this course will empower you to think like a Software Engineer and contribute to the development of innovative software solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Data Analyst

Data Analysts play a crucial role in transforming raw data into actionable insights. With this course, you'll gain a solid foundation in Python, a key tool for data analysis and manipulation. You will explore essential data structures like lists, tuples, and dictionaries, equipping you with the skills to handle and analyze large datasets efficiently. The course's focus on creative coding will also empower you to visualize and present data in compelling ways, enabling you to communicate insights effectively and drive informed decision-making.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Web Developer

Web Developers bring websites and web applications to life. This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of Python, a versatile language widely used in web development. By mastering Python's core concepts, you'll gain a strong understanding of programming logic and data structures. The course's emphasis on creative coding will inspire you to explore the possibilities of web development and build dynamic, user-friendly web experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers are the backbone of the digital world, transforming ideas into working software solutions. This course will provide you with a comprehensive introduction to Python, a powerful and versatile programming language. You'll gain a thorough understanding of variables, loops, strings, conditionals, and functions, equipping you with the skills to develop efficient and effective programs. The course's emphasis on creative coding will foster your problem-solving abilities and inspire you to create innovative software solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Data Scientist

Data Scientists combine programming skills with statistical knowledge to extract meaningful insights from data. This course will introduce you to Python, a popular language in data science. You will learn how to use Python's powerful libraries for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization. The course's emphasis on creative coding will empower you to explore and present data in compelling ways, enabling you to communicate insights effectively and drive informed decision-making.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Database Administrator

Database Administrators ensure the smooth functioning and security of databases. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in Python, a versatile language used in database management. You'll learn how to use Python to interact with databases, perform data manipulation tasks, and write efficient queries. The course's focus on creative coding will inspire you to explore innovative approaches to database management and develop effective solutions for data storage and retrieval.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts bridge the gap between business needs and technical solutions. This course will introduce you to Python, a powerful language used in systems analysis. You will learn how to use Python to analyze and design systems, create prototypes, and develop documentation. The course's emphasis on creative coding will foster your problem-solving abilities and inspire you to develop innovative solutions for complex business challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access and cyber threats. This course will provide you with a foundation in Python, a language commonly used in cybersecurity. You will learn how to use Python to analyze security vulnerabilities, develop security measures, and respond to cyber incidents. The course's focus on creative coding will empower you to think like a hacker and develop innovative solutions for protecting sensitive data and systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts ensure that software products meet quality standards. This course will introduce you to Python, a popular language used in software testing. You will learn how to use Python to write test cases, automate testing processes, and analyze test results. The course's emphasis on creative coding will inspire you to explore innovative approaches to software testing and develop эффективными testing strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts bridge the gap between business and IT, translating business requirements into technical specifications. This course will introduce you to Python, a versatile language used in business analysis. You will learn how to use Python to analyze business processes, create data models, and develop prototypes. The course's emphasis on creative coding will foster your problem-solving abilities and inspire you to develop innovative solutions for complex business challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create user manuals, documentation, and other materials to explain complex technical concepts. This course will introduce you to Python, a versatile language used in technical writing. You will learn how to use Python to generate documentation, create interactive tutorials, and write clear and concise technical content. The course's emphasis on creative coding will inspire you to explore innovative approaches to technical writing and develop engaging and informative documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Network Administrator

Network Administrators maintain and manage computer networks. This course will provide you with a foundation in Python, a language commonly used in network administration. You will learn how to use Python to configure and troubleshoot networks, monitor network traffic, and secure network systems. The course's focus on creative coding will empower you to develop innovative solutions for managing and optimizing network performance.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. This course will introduce you to Python, a versatile language used in project management. You will learn how to use Python to create project plans, track project progress, and manage project resources. The course's emphasis on creative coding will inspire you to explore innovative approaches to project management and develop effective strategies for delivering successful projects.

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Data Entry Clerk

Data Entry Clerks input data into computer systems. While this course may not be directly relevant to the role of a Data Entry Clerk, the skills you will learn in Python, such as data manipulation and organization, can be beneficial in any role that involves working with data. By understanding the basics of Python, you can develop a strong foundation for working with data, exploring data-driven insights, and contributing to efficient data management practices within your organization.

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Reading list

We've selected 13 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 Big Ideas in Programming: Expressing Yourself with Python.

The Art of Computer Programming

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This classic textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the art of programming. While it is not specific to Python, it covers fundamental programming concepts that are applicable to any programming language, and is highly recommended for experienced programmers who want to deepen their understanding of the craft.

Art of Computer Programming, The: Combinatorial...

Hardcover

$$$

Fluent Python

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Deep dive into the Python programming language, covering advanced topics such as decorators, metaclasses, and generators. It's a great resource for experienced Python programmers who want to improve their understanding of the language.

Big Ideas in Programming

Expressing Yourself with Python

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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