Behind every mouse click and touch-screen tap, there is a computer program that makes things happen. This course introduces the fundamental building blocks of programming and teaches you how to write fun and useful programs using the Python language.
Learn to Program: The Fundamentals
University of TorontoAbout this Course
549,242 recent views
Learner Career Outcomes
37%
started a new career after completing these courses
35%
got a tangible career benefit from this course
Shareable Certificate
Earn a Certificate upon completion
100% online
Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.
Flexible deadlines
Reset deadlines in accordance to your schedule.
Beginner Level
Approx. 25 hours to complete
English
Subtitles: Italian, Vietnamese, English, Kazakh, Persian
Skills you will gain
Python Syntax And SemanticsComputer ProgrammingPython ProgrammingIdle (Python)
Learner Career Outcomes
37%
started a new career after completing these courses
35%
got a tangible career benefit from this course
Shareable Certificate
Earn a Certificate upon completion
100% online
Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.
Flexible deadlines
Reset deadlines in accordance to your schedule.
Beginner Level
Approx. 25 hours to complete
English
Subtitles: Italian, Vietnamese, English, Kazakh, Persian
Offered by
University of Toronto
Established in 1827, the University of Toronto is one of the world’s leading universities, renowned for its excellence in teaching, research, innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as its impact on economic prosperity and social well-being around the globe.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
3 hours to complete
Python, Variables, and Functions
This module gives an overview of the course, the editor we will use to write programs, and an introduction to fundamental concepts in Python including variables, mathematical expressions, and functions.
3 hours to complete
8 videos (Total 39 min), 10 readings, 1 quiz
8 videos
Installing Python2m
Python as a Calculator10m
Python and Computer Memory2m
Variables7m
Visualizing Assignment Statements2m
Built-in Functions5m
Defining Functions6m
10 readings
Syllabus10m
Course Logistics10m
Resources10m
Installing Python10m
Python as a Calculator10m
Python and Computer Memory10m
Variables10m
Visualizing Assignment Statements10m
Built-in Functions10m
Defining Functions10m
1 practice exercise
Python, Variables, and Functions24m
5 hours to complete
Strings and Designing Functions
This module introduces strings (a Python data type used to represent text), and a process to follow when creating a function.
5 hours to complete
6 videos (Total 35 min), 6 readings, 2 quizzes
6 videos
Type str4m
Input/Output and str Formatting10m
Docstrings and Function Help1m
Function Design Recipe5m
Function Reuse6m
Visualizing Function Calls5m
6 readings
Type str10m
Input/Output and str Formatting10m
Docstrings and Function help10m
Function Design Recipe10m
Function Reuse10m
Visualizing Function Calls10m
1 practice exercise
Strings and Designing Functions36m
2 hours to complete
Booleans, Import, Namespaces, and if Statements
This module introduces Booleans (logical values True and False), how to convert between types, how to use Boolean expressions in if statements to selectively run code, and the concept of a Python module.
2 hours to complete
7 videos (Total 42 min), 7 readings, 1 quiz
7 videos
Type Bool8m
Converting Between int, str, and float3m
Import: Using Non-Built-in Functions5m
If Statements9m
No if Required4m
Structuring if Statements6m
7 readings
Functions, Variables, and the Call Stack10m
Type Bool10m
Converting Between int, str, and float10m
Import: Using Non-Built-in Functions10m
If Statements10m
No if Required10m
Structuring if statements10m
1 practice exercise
Booleans, Import, Namespaces, and if Statements32m
5 hours to complete
For Loops and Fancy String Manipulation
This module introduces one way to repeat code (using a for loop), how to manipulate strings, and how to use a debugger to watch a program execute step by step.
5 hours to complete
5 videos (Total 26 min), 5 readings, 2 quizzes
5 videos
Str: Indexing and Slicing4m
Str Methods: Functions Inside of Objects3m
For Loop Over Str11m
IDLE's Debugger4m
5 readings
More str Operators10m
Str: Indexing and Slicing10m
Str Methods: Functions Inside of Objects10m
For Loop Over Str10m
IDLE's Debugger10m
1 practice exercise
For Loops and Fancy String Manipulation28m
Reviews
TOP REVIEWS FROM LEARN TO PROGRAM: THE FUNDAMENTALS
by JWApr 11, 2020
I enjoyed this course very much. The concepts were well explained. I gave only 4 stars because I wish there were more assignments to do instead of the quizzes. All in all great intro into programming.
by HAAug 17, 2019
Great for a fundamental course. I have to admit that I had learnt python a few years back and was using this as a practice and revision course. But I learnt a lot more which I can add to my knowledge.
by VFJun 21, 2020
The explanation of each module was perfect, every bit was understood. The mentor was also very helpful in the forum. I wish there was a part 2 of the course to keep learning with the same professors.
by CVNov 16, 2017
This is a introductory course i would recommend. I especially liked that the instructors took the time to go through the python visualizer and try to unveil some of the background workings in python.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
- The course may not offer an audit option. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid.
- The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
What is the refund policy?
You will be eligible for a full refund until two weeks after your payment date, or (for courses that have just launched) until two weeks after the first session of the course begins, whichever is later. You cannot receive a refund once you’ve earned a Course Certificate, even if you complete the course within the two-week refund period. See our full refund policy.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, Coursera provides financial aid to learners who cannot afford the fee. Apply for it by clicking on the Financial Aid link beneath the "Enroll" button on the left. You’ll be prompted to complete an application and will be notified if you are approved. Learn more.
Will I earn university credit for completing the Course?
This Course doesn't carry university credit, but some universities may choose to accept Course Certificates for credit. Check with your institution to learn more. Online Degrees and Mastertrack™ Certificates on Coursera provide the opportunity to earn university credit.
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