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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 perfect for beginners. It has numerous applications, from website development to big data analytics and visualisation.

This course covers the fundamentals of Python syntax and general computer programming. It does not cover data analytics and visualisation with Python.  After familiarity with topics in this 1A course, participants will be prepared for the Python Programming Course: Level 1B, which dives deep into data programming with Python. We recommend enrolling in both courses to gain entry-level skills. Enrolment in both courses is not compulsory.

Please use the CCE Python self-assessment tool if you are unsure which course level to enrol in.

Please ensure Anaconda Python is installed on your device before class. For further details, see 'Before the course'.

Aims

This course aims to teach basic programming skills using Python, including variable types, operations, user input/output, logic, loops and functions.

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

Intended audience

Suitable for professionals, students, academics and members of the public who want to learn programming foundations.

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.

Delivery modes

• Face-to-face, presenter-taught training using your own device
• Online training via the platform Zoom

Delivery style

Face-to-face classes

These classes run in a classroom, and you need to bring your own device with Anaconda Python installed. You should ensure it is fully charged as access to power is limited. Please note that the University does not carry any responsibility for your lost, stolen, or damaged devices whilst on the University premises.

Online classes

You will need your own device with Anaconda Python installed.

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.

Before the course

Anaconda Python Version 3.x is required and should be downloaded free of charge from Anaconda before class. A detailed download guide is provided after course registration.