For all the computer geeks out there, a programming language like Python is a dream come true! With its simple and easy-to-learn syntax, readability, and low maintenance it comes with numerous benefits.
More so, Harvard is now offering online courses in Python which are absolutely free and easily accessible. It is such a great opportunity to master this programming language by learning from the best of faculty.
In the article, we discover what Python is all about. We also detail some free online courses in Python available at Harvard and where you can apply for these courses.Â
Python - A Language of Many Benefits
Python is an object-oriented, elevated programming language with dynamic semantics that is interpreted.
Due to its in-built data structures, dynamic typing, and binding, it is excellent for Rapid Application Development (RAD) and can be used in scripting and as a glue language to connect components.
Python also supports modules and packages, encouraging modularity and reuse and it’s easy to learn and read syntax, reduces the cost of program maintenance. Programmers prefer to use Python over other programming languages.
That's because of its increased productivity and simple debugging procedures. By using Python, programmers can build websites, create apps, develop games, and software among other things.
Free Online Python Courses at Harvard
Let’s take a look at some Harvard online courses that can train you in Python. These free courses are conducted on the edX platform.Â
If you are interested in applying, your first step would be to go to the edX website and create an account to gain access to these courses.
You can either search for the courses on edX or go to Harvard University’s online learning website, select the course you like and click on Take Course.
CS50: Introduction to Computer Science
This introductory course in computer science and programming is great for beginners. Here you can learn the basics of programming and concepts like abstraction, data structures, algorithms, and encapsulation.
You will also be taught resource management, security, web development, and software engineering. In this 11-week course, you can learn several languages like C, PHP, JavaScript, and HTML.
The course will end with a final programming project which the student will have to develop and present to their peers and faculty.
CS50’s Web Programming with Python and JavaScript
With this course, you can get more into the detail of the design and implementation of web apps using Python, SQL, and JavaScript. It is a great follow-up to the CS50: Introduction to Computer Science course.
The curriculum includes database design, scalability, security, and user experience.
You will also learn frameworks like Flask, Bootstrap, and Django and cloud services like GitHub and Heroku through interactive sessions and hands-on projects.Â
By the end of this 12-week course, you will be well equipped with all the tools to design and deploy applications on the internet.
CS50's Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python
By joining this 7-week course, you can study how to use machine learning in Python. The course also teaches graph search algorithms, reinforcement learning, and artificial intelligence principles.
You can learn how to design intelligent systems and how to use AI in Python programs. This introductory course is the first step you can take to learn about Artificial Intelligence (AI), a field that is only growing in prominence in modern times.
The Bottom Line
By learning to code with Python, you can get one step ahead in the field of computer programming. Getting all the knowledge from hands-on projects and learning from expert faculty can be a great advantage.
More so, you can reap the benefit of this knowledge by developing your own websites, games, and apps for the internet.
