Introduction to Programming
A beginner-friendly course that introduces core programming concepts, hands-on coding in Python, essential tools like Git, and a high-level overview of how the internet works, perfect for those starting their programming journey.
Instructor: Samuel James
Categories: Beginner
Course Duration: 322 mins
Course Summary
Course Overview
This course is designed to introduce complete beginners to the world of programming. Through hands-on examples and simplified explanations, learners will build a foundation in core programming concepts and practices. By the end of the course, students will have developed a mental model for how various technologies, particularly web technologies, interconnect, and will be prepared to advance to more specialized or in-depth studies.
Learning Objectives
Familiarity with Basic Programming Concepts
- Understand the purpose and nature of programming.
- Learn how to read and write simple code segments.
- Grasp fundamental data types (integers, floats, booleans, and strings) and how to perform arithmetic and logical operations.
Proficiency in Simple Control Flow
- Write and interpret conditional statements (if-else).
- Use loops (for, while) effectively to process data or repeat tasks.
- Understand common control-flow pitfalls and how to debug them.
Introduction to Essential Tools
- Install and configure a code editor or IDE.
- Gain a basic understanding of version control (Git/GitHub).
- Develop good habits in file organization and reading documentation.
High-Level Understanding of Internet Fundamentals (Optional)
- Recognize how DNS works.
- Appreciate the significance of HTTP, HTTPS, and TLS.
- Form a mental map for how applications communicate over the internet.
Confidence and Preparedness for Next Steps
- Achieve comfort in writing basic scripts and exploring documentation.
- Map out the next steps in web development or other specialized programming fields.
Course Units
Learn what programming is, why different languages exist, and how to set up your coding environment. This module builds a strong foundation with real-world analogies, language comparisons, and hands-on setup of essential tools.
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Learn how to work with variables, data types, and basic operators in Python. This module covers naming conventions, performing arithmetic and logical operations, and manipulating common data types like numbers, strings, and booleans.
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Master the flow of your programs with conditionals and loops. This module teaches how to make decisions with if/else, repeat tasks using for and while loops, and avoid common errors like infinite loops and off-by-one mistakes.
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Get introduced to essential developer tools and best practices. Learn version control with Git/GitHub, how to navigate documentation effectively, and how to organize project files for clarity and collaboration.
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Gain a high-level understanding of how the internet works.
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Test your Python fundamentals with a librarian-themed challenge! Use dictionaries and conditionals to organize book data into checked-in and checked-out lists, sharpening your skills in data handling and clear output formatting.
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