Python Programming Level 1: Intro for Non-Programmers (Live Online)

This foundational Python programming course is specifically designed to build core competencies that enable learners to pursue advanced study and specialized development roles. The curriculum starts with a comprehensive introduction to Python's capabilities and immediately engages students in developing functional applications. Throughout the course, Python syntax fundamentals, including function design and module architecture, are systematically presented. Early modules cover file input/output operations and error handling techniques. The course also explores Python's diverse data type system and structures. The second half of the course introduces fundamental object-oriented programming principles, database connectivity techniques, and the creation of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for desktop applications.

Target Student Profile:
This course serves aspiring developers beginning their programming journey and experienced professionals transitioning their careers to Python development. Python's readable syntax and straightforward logic make it an ideal choice for first-time programmers.

Course Prerequisites:
This course is designed specifically for individuals with minimal or no previous programming experience. Developers with an existing programming background should explore our accelerated Introduction to Python Programming course, which moves through material at a faster pace. Visit our Introduction to Python Programming page for more information about this alternative option.

Skills and Competencies Upon Course Completion:
• Differentiate between various types of Python applications and their uses
• Interpret and understand console application source code
• Operate the Python interactive shell and its features
• Organize and structure Python source files
• Diagnose and correct both syntax and runtime errors
• Properly compile and execute Python programs
• Write executable statements, insert code comments, and organize logic into reusable functions
• Declare variables and assign values using Python's conventions
• Construct and evaluate expressions in Python
• Incorporate special characters and escape sequences
• Utilize Python's built-in function library
• Apply relational operators and logical operators to solve problems
• Write conditional statements and utilize nested if conditions
• Implement iteration using various looping structures
• Design and invoke custom functions
• Pass arguments to functions and receive return values
• Import and use Python's extensive standard library modules
• Create hierarchy charts to plan complex programs
• Master debugging techniques, including breakpoint implementation
• Build, manipulate, and sort lists with single and multiple dimensions
• Create and work with tuple data structures
• Perform operations on text and binary files
• Skillfully manipulate string data, numeric data, and date/time data
• Create your own custom classes and class definitions
• Instantiate objects based on custom class definitions
• Apply proper encapsulation principles in class design
• Establish inheritance relationships between related classes
• Implement polymorphic behavior in object-oriented designs
• Understand the principles of relational database architecture
• Write SQL queries to retrieve and modify data
• Connect to SQLite databases and interact with data
• Execute and test database operations with proper error handling
• Build fully functional graphical user interfaces with root windows
• Respond to user interactions such as button clicks and menu selections
• Arrange graphical components using grid-based layout management

Required Background Knowledge:
Before enrolling in this course, learners should have the following:
• Fundamental computer navigation and file management skills
• Previous programming experience is helpful but not required to benefit from the course

Comprehensive Course Outline:
Note: The course materials provided extend beyond the scope of classroom instruction but serve as a comprehensive reference for continued learning after course completion.
• Foundations and introduction to the Python language and environment
• Writing your first executable Python program
• Programming control flow with selection and iteration structures
• Designing and implementing custom functions and module architecture
• Systematic testing methodologies and debugging practices
• Working with Python collections, including lists and tuples
• File input and output operations for data persistence
• Exception handling and error recovery
• Numeric data types and mathematical operations
• String manipulation and text processing
• Date and time operations and formatting