Kickstart Python

About this Course

First Steps in Python is a beginner-friendly introduction to programming with Python. You will learn core concepts through live-coding demos and hands-on exercises designed for researchers and administrative staff.

Who Is This For?

• Absolute beginners with little to no programming experience
• Researchers and staff who want to automate tasks or analyze data
• Learners from any discipline looking for a practical start with Python

What You’ll Learn

• Fundamental programming concepts in Python
• Working with variables, data types, control flow (if/else, loops)
• Writing and using functions
• Core data structures (lists, tuples, dictionaries, sets)
• Basic debugging strategies

Course Format

• Short introductions and live-coding demonstrations
• Guided practice and independent exercises
• Lightweight quizzes/checkpoints for self-assessment

Prerequisites

• No prior programming knowledge required
• Comfort with basic computer use (installing software, file management)
• Installed Python environment (we recommend Thonny; other IDEs/editors are fine if you are comfortable with them)

Technical Setup

• Python 3.10+ installed
• Thonny (or an alternative editor/IDE)
• Stable internet connection for accessing materials and submitting activities

Time Commitment

• Approx. 4–6 hours per day during the course sessions
• Optional practice between sessions to reinforce concepts

Certification

• Certificate awarded upon successful completion of activities and minimum attendance (≥80%)

FAQs

Do I need any prior programming experience?
No. This course starts from first principles and is designed for absolute beginners.

Which software do I need?
Any recent Python 3 installation works. We recommend Thonny because it is simple and beginner-friendly.

Will recordings or materials be available?
Yes. Lecture notes, example code, and exercise solutions will be provided. Access details are shared within the course.

How are exercises assessed?
Exercises are primarily formative (for learning). Short quizzes/checkpoints help you check your understanding.

What if I get stuck?
Use the course discussion board to ask questions. Instructors and peers will support you. We also encourage posting minimal, reproducible examples when asking for help.

Can I use my preferred IDE (VS Code, PyCharm, etc.)?
Yes. You may use any environment you’re comfortable with. However, beginner support will focus on Thonny.

Accessibility
We aim to provide accessible materials. If you have specific needs, please let the teaching team know early so we can accommodate them.