What Is Programming? And How To Get Started
January 28, 2025
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Beginner level
General Computer Skills.
Recommended experience
Beginner level
General Computer Skills.
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This course introduces basic concepts of systems programming using a modern open source language. You will learn to apply basic programming concepts toward solving problems, writing pseudocode, working with and effectively using basic data types, abstract data types, control structures, code modularization and arrays. You will learn to detect errors, work with variables and loops, and discover how functions, methods, and operators work with different data types. You will also be introduced to the object paradigm including classes, inheritance, and polymorphism.
Learning Python has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for a good reason. Python is a versatile programming language that can be used for a wide range of applications, including data science, machine learning, web development, and more. In an introductory Python course such as this, you can expect to learn the basics of Python syntax, data types, control structures, and functions. Learning Python can lead to many career benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and the ability to work on exciting and innovative projects. Additionally, adding online courses and certifications to a resume can demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a willingness to learn new skills. Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to: - Recall and describe software application and development theory and concepts - Write, compile, execute, troubleshoot, analyze, evaluate, and resolve simple problems through program coding using Python computer language. - Develop, synthesize, and identify important language standard libraries and utilities. - Apply data transfer techniques between modules using parameters and return values. - Construct applications to use simple files for input and output. - Implement arrays as structures to contain data. - Use a higher-level programming language to code, test, and debug software designs. - Implement concepts of Object Oriented Programming (OOP), inheritance and polymorphism. - Describe integration of Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and event driven programming. - Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions (ABET Computing Criterion 3.1) - Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline (ABET Computing Criterion 3.2) - Identify and analyze user needs and take them into account in the selection, creation, evaluation, and administration of computer-based systems (ABET IT Criterion 3.6)
Welcome to Introduction to Open Source Application Development! In this module, you will learn to install and configure Python and Visual Studio Code (VSC). You will gain proficiency in programming fundamentals, including declaring variables, describing data types, and implementing programming logic using flowcharts and pseudocode. Additionally, you will acquire the skills to perform arithmetic operations and effectively work with code in Visual Studio Code, culminating in the ability to upload your coding results to the appropriate platform.
7 videos8 readings4 assignments1 discussion prompt1 ungraded lab
Module 2 focuses on essential programming concepts and skills. You will learn to format output effectively, leveraging various techniques to present data clearly. Additionally, you will explore the importance of type conversion functions and how to use them proficiently. Finally, you will gain an understanding of the sequential flow of a program, mastering the art of designing programs that interact with users through input and output statements.
4 videos5 readings4 assignments1 ungraded lab
In this module, you will learn how to utilize decision alternatives and construct decision structures using conditional statements like 'if' conditions. This essential skill will enable you to create dynamic and responsive programs that adapt their behavior based on specific conditions and criteria.
3 videos5 readings3 assignments1 ungraded lab
In this module, you will learn how to construct nested loops to handle complex repetitive tasks efficiently. Additionally, you'll gain proficiency in constructing both 'For' and 'While' loops, empowering you to create versatile and optimized code for various scenarios, from iterative calculations to data processing.
4 videos5 readings4 assignments1 ungraded lab
This module is designed to enhance your programming skills by focusing on key areas. You'll learn the art of debugging source code, equipping you with the ability to identify and resolve errors effectively. You will explore how to work with imported modules, expanding your code's functionality. And lastly, you'll delve into defining and implementing user-defined functions, enabling you to organize and streamline your code while building reusable blocks of logic for various applications.
4 videos5 readings4 assignments1 ungraded lab
In this module, you will explore essential data manipulation skills. You will learn how to efficiently read and write data to and from files, a critical aspect of real-world data processing. Additionally, you'll master list manipulation techniques, including list slicing, and expand your capabilities by creating lists, including multidimensional ones, enabling you to handle and analyze structured data effectively.
4 videos5 readings4 assignments2 ungraded labs
In this module, you will dive into object-oriented programming (OOP) principles and practices. You will demonstrate your understanding of unified modeling through UML class diagramming, a crucial skill for designing and visualizing software systems. You will also learn how to harness the power of inheritance to build upon existing classes, and you will create your own classes and class objects, paving the way for modular, efficient, and scalable software development.
4 videos5 readings4 assignments1 ungraded lab
In this module, you will learn how to leverage the Tkinter module to create your own customized GUIs, giving you the ability to design user-friendly software interfaces. Furthermore, you will gain an understanding of the fundamental building blocks of GUIs as you describe and work with basic controls that constitute an interactive and visually engaging user interface.
3 videos4 readings3 assignments1 ungraded lab
This module contains the summative course assessment that has been designed to evaluate your understanding of the course material and assess your ability to apply the knowledge you have acquired throughout the course. Be sure to review the course material thoroughly before taking the assessment.
1 assignment
Illinois Tech is a top-tier, nationally ranked, private research university with programs in engineering, computer science, architecture, design, science, business, human sciences, and law. The university offers bachelor of science, master of science, professional master’s, and Ph.D. degrees—as well as certificates for in-demand STEM fields and other areas of innovation. Talented students from around the world choose to study at Illinois Tech because of the access to real-world opportunities, renowned academic programs, high value, and career prospects of graduates.
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This course is part of the following degree program(s) offered by Illinois Tech. If you are admitted and enroll, your completed coursework may count toward your degree learning and your progress can transfer with you.¹
This course is part of the following degree program(s) offered by Illinois Tech. If you are admitted and enroll, your completed coursework may count toward your degree learning and your progress can transfer with you.¹
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¹Successful application and enrollment are required. Eligibility requirements apply. Each institution determines the number of credits recognized by completing this content that may count towards degree requirements, considering any existing credits you may have. Click on a specific course for more information.
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