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Introduction to Computer Programming

Approx. 21 hours to complete

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Course Summary

This course provides an introduction to computer programming concepts and techniques, using the Python programming language. Students will learn how to write basic programs using variables, loops, functions, and conditional statements, as well as how to debug and test their programs.

Key Learning Points

Learn essential programming concepts using Python
Gain practical experience writing and testing your own programs
Understand the fundamentals of computer programming, including variables, loops, and functions

Learning Outcomes

Write basic programs using Python
Understand programming concepts and techniques
Debug and test programs effectively

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

No prior programming experience required
Basic math skills recommended

Course Difficulty Level

Beginner

Course Format

Self-paced
Online
Video lectures
Programming assignments

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Description

This MOOC provides you with the foundational skill set required to write computer programs. If you are interested in learning how to write interactive, graphical programs from an introductory level in a real programming language, this is the course for you. You will begin by learning the basics of editing and running programs. Then you will learn how to create 2D graphics using shapes and coordinates. Finally, you will learn how to create interactive graphics that you can control with the mouse. You will even solve a set of interactive puzzles using your coding skills in the Sleuth game which has been created especially for this course. The course uses the Javascript language and the p5.js library.

Outline

Your development environment
Welcome to the course and about us
About you: Growth mindset
What is programming ? What is p5.js
Running your first program with Brackets
Learn by hacking
2D coordinate systems
Code philosophy: What it feels like to code
Getting started with Sleuth
Some information before you begin….
P5.js Resources
How to download and install Brackets
Programing exercise 1: Hack the Robot
Programing exercise 2: Code from scratch: De Stijl
Sleuth Case by Case
Transcripts for the videos of Sleuth cases 201, 202, 301, 302, 303
Getting started with P5.js
2D coordinate system

Drawing in 2D
RGB colours
fill, stroke, noFill
setup, draw and Programme Flow
Shapes: ellipse, rectangle, line, triangle, point
How to access and use the console to view errors
Debugging syntax errors
Code Philosophy: Asking for help
Programing exercise 3: Hack it - Robot parade
Programing exercise 4: Code from scratch: Kandinsky
Teach it to yourself
Programing exercise 5: Debug challenge
RGB colours
setup, draw and Programme Flow
ellipse, rectangle, line, triangle, point
Using the console and debugging syntax errors

Variables, objects and interaction
Built-in Variables: mouseX, mouseY
Built-in Events: mousePressed, keyPressed
Create your own variables: var, initialising and assigning
12 top tips for naming variables
Objects
Working with operators
Mathematical functions: random, min, max
Inspecting variables in the console
Code philosophy: The elegant coder
MOOC Summary
Programing exercise 6: Coding from scratch - Drawing App
Programing exercise 7: Hack It - Sunrise
Teach it to yourself
Programing exercise 8: Debug challenge
Built-in Variables: mouseX, mouseY, and Events
Create your own variables: var, initialising and assigning
Working with operators
Inspecting Variables in the Console

Summary of User Reviews

Introduction to Computer Programming is a highly-rated course that provides a solid foundation in programming concepts and techniques. Many users praise the clear and concise explanations provided by the instructor.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

The course provides a comprehensive introduction to computer programming concepts and techniques.

Pros from User Reviews

Clear and concise explanations provided by the instructor
Well-structured course content that builds on previous concepts
Interactive coding exercises and quizzes that reinforce learning
Access to a supportive online community of learners and instructors
Flexible scheduling and self-paced learning options

Cons from User Reviews

Some users find the course content too basic or slow-paced
The course requires a significant time commitment to complete
Limited opportunities for personalized feedback or one-on-one support
The course may not be suitable for advanced learners or those with prior programming experience
The course does not cover specific programming languages or technologies in depth

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