Get Started with Python Programming Essentials in Course 1

Learn about the essential elements of programming and how to construct basic Python programs.

In Course 1, learn the basics of Python programming, including functions, logic, conditionals, and modules.

Python Programming Essentials (Course 1)

Python Programming Essentials is a Python language course designed to outfit learners with all the basics they need to start writing code. You will learn the fundamentals of coding using Python 3 including functions, variables, conditionals, and more while gaining real world experience writing basic Python programs. By the end of this course, you will be able to write functional Python scripts confidently. This course uses CodeSkulptor for projects, allowing you to write code in your web browser.

Who should attend:

Beginners looking to learn the basics of writing code with Python 3
Intermediate coders looking to refresh essential concepts with Python 3
Anyone interested in pursuing a career or hobby writing code

You will be able to:

Understand and apply foundational programming concepts such as expressions, variables, functions, and logic
Use Python modules effectively to access and integrate pre-built functionalities
Write and execute simple Python 3 programs in the CodeSkulptor development environment

LECTURE SAMPLES

MEET YOUR RICE PROFESSOR

Scott Rixner

Scott Rixner is a Professor of Computer Science at Rice University. His research spans virtualization, operating systems, and computer architecture, with a specific focus on memory systems and networking. He concentrates on the intersection of hardware and software, working to develop system software that better exploits modern hardware and to develop hardware that simplifies system software. He is also well versed in the internals of the Python programming language, as he has developed Python interpreters for both embedded systems and web browsers. His work has led to 11 patents and has been implemented within several open-source systems. He has also been actively involved in curriculum development and oversight at Rice, having served on or led the curriculum committees for the University, School of Engineering, and Department of Computer Science. He is currently helping to lead the Master of Computer Science (100% Online) and Master of Data Science (100% Online) degree programs. Prior to joining Rice, he received his Ph.D. from MIT.

Joe D. Warren

Joe Warren is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Rice University. His main area of research interest is computer graphics and geometric modeling, where he has published extensively. He is the author of the book Subdivision Methods for Geometric Design. He also has a love for computer gaming, both playing games and teaching students how to build them. He has taught the Department’s Introduction to Game Creation course as well as its senior-level game design course in collaboration with Houston game professionals for over a decade.

Joe has led the development of several award-winning specializations on introductory programming on Coursera. Joe was an undergraduate at Rice from 1979-1983 and received his Ph.D. from Cornell in 1986. He has been a professor at Rice ever since and served as the Chair of the Department from 2008-2013.