Python Fundamentals

Introduction to Python

Introducing the Python programming language using the software Spyder. You will be guided through how to download Spyder to a suitable device and given a live demonstration of Spyder's functionality.

Key programming concepts

Covering the key Python programming concepts.

Variables and Data Types
Understand the role of variables, how they store data, and explore types like integers, floats, strings, and booleans for versatile data handling in Python.

Reading Input
Learn to interact with users through keyboard input, prompting and processing user responses in your Python programs.

Output Formatting
Discover techniques for presenting output effectively, enhancing code readability and user-friendliness.

Data Conversion
Explore methods to seamlessly convert data between types, ensuring consistency in your programs.

Decision Structures
Delve into programming logic with if, else, and else-if statements, enabling adaptive programs based on conditions.

The unit will include practical exercises and real-world examples to solidify your grasp of these concepts, preparing you to engage confidently with subsequent content.

Looping

Focussing on Loops in Python, we will discuss the ‘while’ loop and the ‘for’ loop including jump statements (e.g. break, continue) used to alter the flow of a loop. Throughout the unit, learners will engage in hands-on exercises to solidify their understanding of both loop types and the utilisation of jump statements. By the end of the unit, learners will possess a robust comprehension of how loops function in Python, enabling them to implement iterative processes effectively and efficiently.

Functions and Module

Focussing on Functions and Modules in Python. We will discuss the different aspects of Python functions including variable scope, various mechanisms to pass arguments to functions, saving functions in modules, and built-in library functions.

Data Structures

Introducing the important data structures of Python, i.e. Lists, Tuples, Dictionaries. These data structures play a crucial role in organizing and managing data efficiently, making them indispensable tools in Python programming. The unit provides insights into how these structures can be seamlessly integrated with loops to process and manipulate data effectively.

Lists and testing

Delving deeper into the topic of Python lists and, more importantly, exploring the essential subject of testing Python programs. You have the opportunity to learn how to design your test table to identify errors and fix the codes. You should acquire valuable techniques for crafting a well-organised test table, a potent resource that assists in pinpointing errors and efficiently addressing code challenges.

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)

Introducing the concepts of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), and discussing the difference between OOP and procedural programming. The unit also introduces how to design classes using UML class diagram.

Classes

Delivering a thorough re-explanation of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), illustrating the process of building a class from scratch. This guided progression will begin with the creation of a UML diagram and advance to the hands-on implementation of the class. During this immersive experience, learners will have the opportunity to generate multiple instances of the class, allowing them to evaluate its effectiveness and behaviour across various scenarios. Through this practical engagement, learners will reinforce their comprehension of class implementation and the pivotal concept of object instantiation.

Input/Output (I/O)

Our instructional focus will be centred around two crucial topics: File Input/Output (I/O) and exception handling.

File I/O encompasses the techniques and methodologies necessary for interacting with files in a programming environment. You will delve into processes such as reading data from files, writing data to files, and navigating through file structures.

Exception handling is a critical aspect of writing robust and error-tolerant code. You'll gain insights into how to identify and manage unexpected occurrences and errors that might disrupt the normal flow of your program.

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