Python Object Basics: Functions, Recursion, and Objects

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/python-object-basics

Introduction

### Course Review: Python Object Basics: Functions, Recursion, and Objects **Course Overview** If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of programming, *Python Object Basics: Functions, Recursion, and Objects* on Coursera is a must-try! This course allows you to code and run your first Python program in just minutes without any installation hassles. Designed specifically for learners with limited coding experience, it's an excellent starting point for anyone interested in programming. The course not only focuses on Python but also covers fundamental Computer Science concepts that are transferable to other programming languages. **Why This Course?** 1. **Solid Foundation**: The course emphasizes core programming principles, starting with user-defined functions and advancing to recursion, objects, and mutability. This foundational knowledge is critical for your growth as a programmer. 2. **Hands-On Learning**: Each week includes practical labs and coding exercises, enabling participants to apply what they've learned immediately. This interactive approach enhances understanding and retention. 3. **Ideal for Beginners**: The course assumes limited prior coding knowledge, making it genuinely accessible to beginners. If you've never coded before, fear not! You’ll be guided every step of the way. 4. **Flexibility and Self-Paced Learning**: One of the best features of this course is the self-paced format. You can learn at your own convenience, making it easier to balance your studies with other responsibilities. **Course Syllabus Breakdown** - **Week 1: User-Defined Functions** In this introductory week, you’ll learn how to create functions that allow you to encapsulate reusable code. Understanding functions is crucial - they help organize your code and make it more manageable. The week concludes with a lab where you can practice and solidify your understanding. - **Week 2: Recursion** Delve into the intriguing world of recursion, where functions call themselves to solve problems. This week helps you recognize situations where recursion is a more effective solution compared to traditional looping. You'll engage in hands-on exercises that will challenge your understanding and application of recursion. - **Week 3: Introduction to Objects** This week introduces you to the concept of objects in programming. You'll create user-defined classes—essentially blueprints from which you can create individual instances or objects. You'll finish the week with a lab to reinforce your skills in object-oriented programming. - **Week 4: Mutability** The course wraps up by tackling mutability—the ability to change an object's attributes through methods. You'll learn how to manipulate data within your objects, ensuring you can build dynamic and responsive programs. **Recommendation** *Python Object Basics: Functions, Recursion, and Objects* is highly recommended for anyone interested in sharpening their programming skills. Whether you're a complete novice or someone looking to refresh your understanding of fundamental programming concepts, this course offers invaluable insights and practical experience. Given its structured approach and hands-on learning style, the course makes complex topics approachable and understandable. Completion of previous courses in the specialization is advised, but this is a fantastic standalone offering that can empower you with coding skills you'll use for years to come. Engage with the course material, participate in labs, and practice consistently. By the end of this course, you'll not only write efficient Python code but also build a solid foundation for learning other programming languages in the future. So, why wait? Start your journey into coding with this engaging and insightful course on Coursera today!

Syllabus

User-Defined Functions

Welcome to Week 1 of the Python Object Basics: Functions, Recursion, and Objects course. These assignments cover re-using pieces of code by wrapping them in functions. You can create functions that take in and/or return data. The module ends with a lab and graded coding exercises.

Welcome to Week 2 of the Python Object Basics: Functions, Recursion, and Objects course. These assignments cover creating recursive functions and identifying when recursion can be used instead of traditional iteration. The module ends with a lab and graded coding exercises.

Welcome to Week 3 of the Python Object Basics: Functions, Recursion, and Objects course. These assignments cover creating user-defined classes and how to instantiate an object based on these classes. The module ends with a lab and graded coding exercises.

Welcome to Week 4 of the Python Object Basics: Functions, Recursion, and Objects course. These assignments cover changing attributes associated with an object through methods. The module ends with a lab and graded coding exercises.