Class Details
Python Programming Course: Fundamentals
Course summary
Python is one of the most in-demand technical skills and one of the easiest programming languages to learn. With a syntax similar to the English language, Python is an ideal choice for beginners. It has a wide range of applications, from web development to data analytics and visualisation.
This course is the first of a two-part Introduction to Python series. We recommend enrolling in both courses to gain entry level skills, however enrolment in both courses is not compulsory.
This course covers the fundamentals of Python syntax and general computer programming. It does not cover data analytics and visualisation with Python - this is covered in Python Programming Course: Data Analytics.
If you are unsure which course level is right for you, please use the CCE Python self-assessment tool.
Aims
The aim of this course is to teach basic programming skills using Python, including variable types, operations, user input/output, logic, loops and functions.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
- install Python and additional packages (via Anaconda)
- understand the difference between Python and Anaconda
- find and read documentation for Python libraries and functions
- use Jupyter Notebook to write and run Python code
- work with basic Python data types (string, float, integer, etc)
- work with basic Python collections (list, dictionary, tuple, etc)
- write Python expressions that involve variables, variable assignment, operators, functions
- understand the basics of object oriented programming
- use conditionals and loops
- fix coding errors
- read csv data files into Python using the Pandas package.
Content
- Introduction to programming
- Introduction to Python, Anaconda and Jupyter Notebook
- Finding, installing and loading Python libraries/packages
- Variables and data types
- Writing expressions
- Collections (lists, tuples, and dictionaries)
- Debugging
- Using logic, conditionals and loops
- Creating functions
- Finding and reading documentation
- Basic exposure to object-oriented programming
- Reading csv files using pandas package
Prerequisites
It is assumed you have computer and data literacy knowledge to the level of performing basic data analysis tasks in Excel, i.e. basic (high school) algebra, percentages, probability, averages. No prior programming experience is required.
Who this course is for
Suitable for professionals, students, academics and members of the public who want to learn programming foundations.
Delivery modes
- Face-to-face, presenter-taught training using your own device
- Online training via the platform Zoom
Materials
Training materials, including a mixture of step-by-step instructions, examples and exercises are provided electronically using Dropbox. These materials will serve as a useful reference when working with Python in future.
What you need to do before the course
To participate in this course, you will need Anaconda Python Version 3.x installed on your device. It can be downloaded free of charge from Anaconda.
Face-to-face classes
Please bring your own laptop with all required software pre-installed.
Online classes
For the best experience, we recommend using a computer with a large monitor or dual screens/devices. Small laptop screens can make it difficult to follow the facilitator’s display while working in the software.
Sessions
Location
Face-to-face (CCE Building, Sydney)
Public transport
As bus and train timetables regularly change, we suggest you visit the Transport for NSW trip planner before you set out.
The nearest train stations are Newtown Station and Macdonaldtown Station. Macdonaldtown Station is closer by distance than Newtown Station, however trains do not stop as frequently as at Newtown Station.
Other information
Parking
Nearby parking is available at Wilson Parking - RPA Medical Centre Car Park (entry via Elizabeth Street off Carillon Avenue).
A Flexi Saver Rate is available but must be booked in advance online and includes the booking fee. Bookings can be made via the Wilson website or by downloading the Wilson Parking App. Otherwise, hourly parking rates will apply, as advertised on the Wilson Parking website.
Meet the facilitators
Paul Yacobellis
Paul Yacobellis has been helping professionals optimise their personal productivity for the past 10 years. He has assisted management and individuals implement time saving, energy maximising techniques. He has lead training sessions that cut out wasteful time, reduce stress, and increase overall well-being. Paul’s techniques range from technical to behavioural.
Paul also has experience in data mining and big data analytics, statistical computing, economic/econometric consulting, spatial statistics and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), transport modelling, and business development. He has consulted with government agencies, private corporations and universities, and has previously taught statistics, mathematics, economics and computer science at the University of Central Florida, Orlando.
Paul holds a Master’s in Statistical Computing (Data Mining track) and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Mathematics.
When not sharing his passion for enhanced personal productivity, Paul works fulltime as data scientist and enjoys parenthood, long-distance running and reading great books.
