Introduction to Visual Basic Programming

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/visual-basic-programming-introduction

Introduction

### Course Review: Introduction to Visual Basic Programming on Coursera If you're looking to embark on a programming journey, "Introduction to Visual Basic Programming" on Coursera is an excellent choice. This course serves as the second installment in a series designed to equip aspiring programmers with essential skills for a career in coding. Whether you're a complete beginner or someone who has some experience in programming, this course provides a solid foundation in procedural programming concepts. #### Course Overview The course focuses on five key concepts in procedural programming: user input, console output, variable declaration and assignment, decision branching, and iteration. By the end of the course, you will have cultivated a basic understanding of these principles and their applications in programming. The course is structured around engaging lectures and hands-on labs that enable students to apply the concepts covered in class to real-world programming tasks. One notable requirement is that learners must have access to a local machine, as coding will be done using Visual Studio on Windows, Mac OS, or Linux. This flexibility ensures that more students can join without being restricted by operating systems. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Console Input and Output**: In this module, students dive right into coding using Visual Studio. You'll start learning how to read user input and display output in the console. This practical exposure sets a strong foundation as you take your first steps in programming. 2. **Data Types**: Understanding how computers store data is crucial for any programmer. In this module, you will delve into different data types like integers, decimals, booleans, and strings. It covers variable conversion and visibility, equipping you with the knowledge needed to handle and manipulate data proficiently. 3. **Decision Branching**: This module is essential for grasping how to control the flow of your programs. Students learn how to use "if" statements, implement "else" clauses for multiple tests, and utilize case statements. This skill is vital for writing logic-driven applications that respond appropriately based on user input or conditions. 4. **Iteration**: Here, the course introduces looping constructs, allowing you to repeat sections of your code efficiently. You'll learn about loops that repeat a fixed number of times, as well as while loops that continue based on conditions. By the end of this module, you’ll have the ability to write code that can dynamically adjust its execution flow. #### Why You Should Take This Course There are several compelling reasons to enroll in "Introduction to Visual Basic Programming": - **Hands-On Learning**: This course prioritizes practical application, with labs designed to reinforce theoretical concepts. The balance between lectures and hands-on coding enables you to internalize what you learn effectively. - **Foundation for Future Learning**: If you're looking to progress in the programming world, mastering these fundamental concepts in Visual Basic will provide a robust groundwork for exploring more advanced programming languages and concepts. - **Supportive Learning Environment**: With an engaging instructor and a structured approach, the course fosters an environment conducive to learning. Whether through forums or provided resources, you can expect support throughout your journey. - **Flexibility and Accessibility**: With options to use different operating systems, this course is accessible to a wide audience. The online format also allows for flexible learning schedules to accommodate different lifestyles. #### Conclusion In summary, "Introduction to Visual Basic Programming" on Coursera is more than just an introductory course; it’s a stepping stone for anyone interested in programming. The emphasis on practical application, foundational knowledge, and the supportive environment makes it a highly recommended course. As industries continue to rely on programming skills, enrolling in this course could very well be the first step toward a rewarding career in tech. Whether you're preparing for further studies in programming or looking to enhance your skillset, this course is an investment in your future.

Syllabus

Console Input and Output

In this module, we roll up our sleeves and start coding! We will learn to use both Visual Studio to develop code and the command line. The Visual Basic Programs can be written on a Windows, Mac OS or Linux machine and I will show you how to do so. Our first programs will focus on reading input from the keyboard and outputting the results of the program to the console output.

In the second module of this course, we will look at how computers store data during the execution of a program. We will look at storing whole numbers, decimal numbers, boolean values and strings. We will explore how you can convert between different types of variables. Lastly, we will look at how long a variable stays in existence and when it is visible to the pieces of the code.

In the third module of this course, we will learn how to change the flow of a program’s execution based on a test. We will look at single tests utilizing if statements in our code. We follow up with multiple tests with the addition of the else clause. Lastly, we look at the case statement as an alternative expression of the flow of the program.

In the fourth module of this course, we learn how to change the flow of our programs by repeating code iteratively. We will start with a look at loops that repeat a fixed number of times. We will follow up with writing loops that continue while a test is positive. Lastly, we will look at how we can modify the flow to immediately break from a loop or jump back to the test condition.