Application Programming Fundamentals

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/application-programming-fundamentals

Introduction

**Course Review: Application Programming Fundamentals on Coursera** Are you looking to dip your toes into the world of programming and object-oriented concepts? If so, "Application Programming Fundamentals" on Coursera may just be the perfect course for you. This course is designed to provide learners with a solid foundation in programming principles using Python while also making sure that these concepts are applicable in other object-oriented programming languages. ### Overview The course opens up with the fundamental tenets of programming, building a thoughtful framework that encompasses the key ideas behind modern object-oriented programming. Through comprehensive modules that touch upon essential concepts such as objects, classes, messaging, inheritance, and polymorphism, learners gain not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills through hands-on labs. ### Syllabus Breakdown Let’s delve into the course structure: 1. **Getting Started with Fundamentals of Programming** - The course kicks off with an introduction that sets the stage for what’s to come. It emphasizes the essential spirit of programming while exploring basic concepts like what makes up a program. This module is designed for absolute beginners and lays a solid foundation. 2. **Programming Elements** - This module dives deeper into specific programming elements and aims to provide learners with a robust understanding of data types such as numbers, strings, Booleans, and arrays. You will engage in hands-on exercises that help you work with operators, expressions, and variables. By the module's conclusion, you’ll see how these small concepts integrate into creating functioning programs. 3. **Algorithms** - Here, you’ll learn that algorithms are the backbone of programming. This module breaks down the significance of algorithms and logical reasoning, helping you think programmatically. Expect a detailed discussion on classic algorithms, which will enhance your problem-solving skills as you learn to map out solutions through logical steps. 4. **Design Patterns** - The final module introduces design patterns, the architectural blueprints for solving common programming problems. You'll learn about their utility, where to find them, and how they can significantly improve your coding practice. Engaging in lab exercises with simple design patterns allows for practical implementation, giving you hands-on experience that solidifies your understanding. ### Review One of the most commendable features of this course is its learner-centered approach. Each module balances theoretical concepts with practical applications, allowing you to immediately apply what you’ve learned through interactive labs. The instructors present the materials clearly, making complex details accessible even for newcomers. The use of Python as the teaching language is also a strong selling point. Python is known for its readability and simplicity, which makes it an ideal choice for beginners. However, the lessons are designed to be transferable across other object-oriented languages, providing relevance beyond the confines of Python. ### Recommendation I highly recommend "Application Programming Fundamentals" for anyone wanting to build a solid foundation in programming. Whether you are an absolute beginner or someone looking to refresh your skills, this course offers step-by-step guidance that will make the learning process enjoyable and rewarding. The hands-on labs not only reinforce what you learn but also offer you a chance to create and execute your own programs. This practical exposure is invaluable as it prepares you to tackle real-world programming challenges. Don’t hesitate to enroll if you’re ready to embark on a journey into the world of programming. The skills you gain here won’t just demystify programming concepts but also empower you to become a proficient programmer capable of adapting to various programming languages and paradigms. Happy coding!

Syllabus

Getting Started with Fundamentals of Programming

In this module we'll review what you will be learning, and we'll start off with the basic concepts of programming. We will discuss what programs are, and what common elements you would come across in almost any mainstream programming language. Foremost, we'll try to get across the essential spirit and challenge of computer programming.

Is this module, we will cover all of the fundamental programming elements that we intend to cover for this course. These elements include a few data types, specifically numbers, strings, Booleans and arrays. Given those data types, we'll talk about operators that work on them. We'll put those things together into expressions, and learn to use variables. Moving on, we'll learn to package reusable code in subroutines, and to incorporate both conditional and repetitive execution. Throughout, you'll have hands-on exercises to try these things, yourself. And by the end of the course, you'll be surprised by what we can do with just this handful of concepts.

Algorithms are language independent descriptions of the sequences of steps necessary to carry out a task. In this module, we'll look at what that means, talk about the importance of algorithms and logical thinking, and go into some detail on a simple, classic, algorithm.

Design Patterns are language independent architectural blueprints to help address particular problem domains. They describe the types of components that make up the micro-architecture and the interactions both inside the design pattern and with the design pattern. In this module, we'll look at that in more detail, discuss the importance of design patterns, where you would find them, and we'll discuss a few design patterns. In lab, you'll explore a very simple design pattern.