Introduction to Python

What is the course about?

This course is aimed at anyone who wants to learn a simple but powerful modern programming language. The course leads students from the basics of writing and running Python scripts to more advanced features such as file operations, working with data, and using Python modules.

Participants who will attend the full course will receive a City Lit certificate of attendance electronically for their CV or CPD records. The certificate will show your name, course title and dates of the course you have attended.

You can choose to attend this course either live online or in person.
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?

• An Overview of Python
• What is Python?
• Compiled and Interpreted programming languages
• Downloading and installing Python
• Using the Python documentation
• The structure of a Python script
• Running Python scripts
• Using variables
• Managing text with String operators
• Managing numbers with Math operators
• Writing to the screen
• Reading from the keyboard
• The if and elif statements 'while' and 'for loops'
• Using lists
• List operations and methods
• Dealing with syntax errors
• Program Exceptions.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Write Python scripts
• Use flow control structures
• Use Python to read and write files and handle external data
• Make their code robust by handling errors and exceptions properly
• Work with the Python code libraries.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No prior knowledge of Python or programming is required, but you should have good general computing skills. You should be able to follow spoken instructions, read written instructions and information, and discuss work with your tutor in English. If you are new to programming and would like to do some preparation for this course you may wish to try the following : Using the scratch tool use the graphical editor to draw a square http://scratch.mit.edu/projects/editor/.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

No external work required.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no additional costs. All software used on the course is free to download and use and your tutor will recommend where to find this software. Unfortunately due to the range of hardware and software used by students at home, the College is unable to provide advice on installation issues.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Please click here to view our Programming and Maths courses.

Disclaimer: Use of Third-Party Software
This course might require you to either use your own personal account or create an account for the purposes of this course. City Lit cannot accept any responsibility for any failings of the third party or provide technical support. Whilst using the software you will be responsible for abiding by the providers terms and conditions and maintaining your own work.