This course is an introduction to computer programming. Over two weeks, the course will look at some of the core ideas of computer programming and the importance of computer code throughout society. It will then go on to give you hands-on experience of writing computer code.
This week, you’ll look at some key developments in computing history, learn about how code is used in the real world and learn from professional programmers about how they use code in their work.
Next week, you’ll write your own first computer programs, and learn what programming feels like. You’ll also discover how programmers work with one another and learn more about starting a career in code.
The course assumes you have no previous experience of programming computers.
This course map provides a quick overview of the two weeks ahead.
Each week of this course is centred around learning outcomes: statements which express what it is you will be better able to do by the end of the course. They are a useful way of checking on how you’re progressing. You can revisit steps as you progress through the course so that you feel confident you’re meeting the learning outcomes. As you are working through the steps and activities, you might want to refer back to this step to check your progress against the learning outcomes.
Summarise key developments in the advent of computer technology.
Identify where algorithms are used in the real world.
Describe the features and advantages of text-based coding languages.
Discuss the roles and responsibilities involved in making software.
Solve basic block-language programming exercises.
Solve more advanced block language exercises with expressive solutions.
You can access this course using a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptop or desktop computers. Exercise steps give you opportunity to try things out for yourself. Accessing these steps using a laptop or desktop will enable you to view the content on a larger screen, which might make it easier to practise and apply your learning.
Every attempt has been made to make this course as accessible as possible. However, there are some activities that may be difficult to access if you use a screen reader device.
If you have a general interest in this topic, you can work through the learning steps in around two and a half hours each week. However, everyone is different, and you may wish to spend more time on certain steps. Additional practice activities, links and resources allow you to explore the course topics in more detail. Make the most of these opportunities to further your understanding of this topic.
It’s important that you don’t feel pressured to complete all the elements of the course: your learning journey is individual and you should decide what elements are relevant to your learning needs.
When you Mark as Complete over 90% of steps, and get over 70% in the final course test you will earn a Certificate of Achievement. This personalised Certificate of Achievement and transcript detail the syllabus and learning outcomes, as well as your end of course test score. This provides ideal evidence of your interest in and understanding of this subject. The certificate comes in both printed and digital formats, so you can easily add it to your portfolio, CV or LinkedIn profile.
As you complete the course you may come across terms and references that require further explanation. To help with this, there is a Glossary that you can view and refer to at any point in the course.