Python Basics Course Offered by University of Michigan from Coursera

This course introduces the basics of Python 3, making it perfect for newcomers to programming or those needing a refresher on Python fundamentals. You will learn essential programming concepts such as conditional execution and iteration, which are key control structures, as well as data structures like strings and lists. A unique aspect of this course is programming an on-screen Turtle to draw visually appealing pictures, which helps to solidify your understanding of Python syntax and logic.

Throughout the course, you’ll also develop your debugging skills, learning to draw reference diagrams as a way to reason about program execution. This approach not only improves your ability to troubleshoot and fix code but also deepens your overall comprehension of how programs work.

The course has no prerequisites, making it accessible to anyone eager to start programming in Python. The material covered aligns with Chapters 1-9 of the textbook “Fundamentals of Python Programming,” which is optional and freely available to all students.

This course is ideal for:

• Newcomers to Python programming
• Individuals needing a refresher on Python basics
• Those with some prior exposure to Python who seek a more in-depth understanding and a richer vocabulary for describing and reasoning about programs

This is the first of five courses in the Python 3 Programming Specialization, providing a solid foundation for more advanced study and applications of Python programming.

Skills you will gain

Skills You Will Gain

• Python Programming:
  • Master the basics of Python 3, including syntax, variables, and basic operations.
  • Understand and implement control structures such as conditional statements (if, elif, else) and loops (for and while).
  • Gain proficiency in writing and running Python scripts.
• Data Structures:
  • Learn to manipulate and utilize essential data structures such as strings and lists.
  • Perform operations like slicing, indexing, and using list comprehensions.
  • Understand the concepts of mutability and immutability in Python data structures.
• Code Debugging:
  • Develop strong debugging skills, learning to identify, diagnose, and fix errors in your code.
  • Use reference diagrams to visualize and reason about program execution and data flow.
  • Apply debugging techniques to improve the reliability and efficiency of your programs.
• Practical Programming Skills:
  • Create drawings and visual representations using Turtle graphics to solidify understanding of programming concepts.
  • Engage in hands-on projects and exercises that build practical coding experience.
  • Enhance problem-solving abilities through real-world programming tasks and challenges.

What you will learn

What You Will Learn
Python 3 Basics:

Grasp the fundamentals of Python programming language, including its syntax and semantics.
Understand and implement conditional statements (if, elif, else) to control the flow of your programs.
Learn how to use loops (for and while) for repetitive tasks and iterations.
Data Structures:

Manipulate strings and understand string operations and methods.
Work with lists, performing operations like slicing, indexing, and using list methods.
Explore the concepts of mutability and immutability and how they apply to different data structures.
Turtle Graphics:

Program an on-screen Turtle to create drawings and visualizations.
Use Turtle graphics to reinforce programming concepts and make learning interactive and fun.
Develop projects that involve creating shapes, patterns, and more complex drawings.
Debugging and Reasoning:

Learn to draw reference diagrams to reason about and visualize program execution.
Develop debugging skills to identify, diagnose, and correct errors in your code.
Use practical debugging techniques to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your programs.
Practical Application:

Apply your knowledge through hands-on projects and exercises.
Build a solid foundation in Python programming, preparing you for more advanced topics and courses.
Enhance your problem-solving skills by tackling real-world programming challenges.