Unlock Python programming basics to code with confidence

Python is revolutionising the tech industry by making programming accessible and versatile.

Whether you are new to coding or looking to sharpen your skills, this comprehensive course from the University of Leeds is your gateway to learn foundational concepts and explore the skills you need to launch a successful career in tech.

Explore the foundations of Python programming

You’ll embark on an engaging journey into Python, one of the world’s most popular programming languages.

The course will guide you through the foundational concepts and syntax, including variables, data types, and input/output operations- key elements that will empower you to create your own Python applications.

By the end, you’ll be equipped to solve real-world problems and contribute to cutting-edge technological advancements.

Explore practical applications and ethical considerations

Programming is not just about writing code; it’s also about understanding the broader impact your work can have.. You’ll explore the ethical implications of software development, such as privacy, security, and the societal effects of technology.

This holistic understanding will prepare you to create responsible and beneficial applications in your professional career.

Learn from experts at the University of Leeds

Developed by the esteemed School of Computing at the University of Leeds, this course is part of the ClickStart initiative, designed to democratise access to computer science education. Learn from renowned academics and industry experts, gaining insights that are both academically rigorous and practically applicable.

Syllabus

Week 1
Programming fundamentals in Python
- Course Introduction
  Learn programming basics and Python syntax. Understand algorithms, propositional logic, and variables. Create simple programs and explore computer science's impact across diverse sectors.
- Introduction to programming
  Dive into programming by defining its essence, mastering key terms, and understanding diverse languages. Conclude by exploring Visual Studio Code, where you'll write and edit your first Python program.
- Fundamental programming principles
  Explore computer components and their programming roles to uncover programming fundamentals. Learn why mastering algorithms, problem-solving, pseudocode, and logical propositions is essential for advancing your programming skills.
- Basic Python syntax
  Master basic Python syntax to start writing programs using Visual Studio Code on Coursera. Engage in exercises to reinforce concepts like variables, data types, user input, output, and problem-solving through simple algorithms.
Week 2
More advanced programming concepts
- Flow control and loops
  Discover key programming concepts: conditionals and loops. Learn how conditionals make decisions for complex tasks. Write Python programs using if statements, for loops, and while loops.
- Functions
  Explore the concept of functions—reusable code blocks—in Python. Learn to write and call functions, understand built-in functions, and differentiate between arguments and parameters.
- Writing a complete program: Program a robot to move in space
  Bring together your programming knowledge to program a robot! Work within a text-based environment or optionally explore a GUI. Translate pseudocode to Python, solve problems with code, and guide a robot.
- Course consolidation and Test
  Congrats on finishing the course! You've learned programming basics, algorithms, logic, variables, data types, input/output, comments, conditionals, loops, and functions.

When would you like to start?

Start straight away and join a global classroom of learners. If the course hasn’t started yet you’ll see the future date listed below.

Available now

Learning on this course

On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

Describe what computer programming is
Describe what an algorithm is
Describe what variables are
Describe what logic operators are and explain the AND, OR and NOT operators
Reflect on the use of different primitive data types in Python
Create and run a simple “hello world” Python program
Create a simple program in Python that can accept input from a user and display output to a user.

Who is the course for?

This course is tailored for individuals who want to enhance their employability through digital skills. If you’re looking to enter the tech industry or advance your career prospects, this opportunity is ideal.

Click Start, aimed at bridging the digital gap for underrepresented groups, offers free access to twenty-nine courses from the esteemed University of Leeds. As a participant, you’ll gain unrestricted access to course materials, graded assignments, and certificates—all at no cost.This initiative not only provides practical Python programming skills but also prepares you for success across various professional environments.

Who will you learn with?

Sam Wilson

I am currently an Associate professor in the School of Computer Science, University of Leeds. Graduating with a PhD in theoretical computer science I am focused on computer science pedagogies.

Who developed the course?

University of Leeds

As one of the UK’s largest research-based universities, the University of Leeds is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and a centre of excellence for teaching.

Click Start

This course is part of Click Start, a nationwide training programme developed by the Institute of Coding (IoC) , a national collaboration of universities, employers and charities and funded by Nominet – the public benefit company and guardians of the .UK namespace.

Endorsers and supporters

supported by

funded by

What's included?

University of Leeds are offering everyone who joins this course a free digital upgrade, so that you can experience the full benefits of studying online for free. This means that you get:

Unlimited access to this course

Includes any articles, videos, peer reviews and quizzes

Tests to validate your learning

A PDF Certificate of Achievement to prove your success when you’re eligible

Learning on FutureLearn

Your learning, your rules

Courses are split into weeks, activities, and steps to help you keep track of your learning
Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores

Join a global classroom

Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
Share ideas with your peers and course educators on every step of the course
Join the conversation by reading, @ing, liking, bookmarking, and replying to comments from others

Map your progress

As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control
Complete 90% of course steps and all of the assessments to earn your certificate

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