Introduction to Scripting in Python Specialization Course Syllabus

Overview: This specialization provides a comprehensive introduction to Python scripting, designed for beginners with no prior programming experience. Through a series of four interconnected courses, learners will build foundational skills in Python 3, including data manipulation, file handling, and data visualization. The course emphasizes hands-on learning with real-world projects and practical applications. With a total time commitment of approximately 33 hours, learners can complete the specialization in about one month by dedicating around 10 hours per week. Lifetime access allows self-paced progress and continuous review.

Module 1: Python Programming Essentials

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Introduction to Python expressions and variables
• Writing and using functions in Python
• Implementing logic and conditionals
• Using Python modules to extend program functionality
• Writing short, practical Python programs

Module 2: Python Data Representations

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Working with strings, lists, and tuples
• Storing and retrieving data in files
• Accessing and manipulating structured data
• Handling data types effectively in scripts

Module 3: Python Data Analysis

Estimated time: 9 hours

• Reading and processing tabular data
• Working with CSV files in Python
• Performing data analysis tasks
• Storing and organizing data for analysis

Module 4: Python Data Visualization

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Installing and using external Python packages
• Acquiring data from web sources
• Cleaning and processing raw data
• Creating visual representations of data

Module 5: Final Project

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Deliverable 1: Analyze real-world economic data from the World Bank
• Deliverable 2: Process and clean the dataset using Python scripts
• Deliverable 3: Visualize the data on a world map using appropriate libraries

Prerequisites

• No prior programming experience required
• Basic computer literacy
• Access to a computer with internet connection

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Master core Python 3 programming concepts including variables, functions, and conditionals
• Develop practical scripting skills to automate common tasks
• Analyze and manipulate structured data using Python
• Visualize data using real-world datasets and external libraries
• Build a project portfolio demonstrating Python proficiency