CS 2120: Topic 1¶
Video for this week:¶
Warning
To clarify (@ 6:05 in video), you will need a webcam AND microphone for ProctorTrack. Please see the proctortrack requirements page for more details.
Note
Welcome to CS2120! For this week, complete the following:
Watch the introductory video
Read through this page and complete the “For next week” tasks
What is the point of this course?¶
My goal: that you will become familiar with Python
Why? So that if you are working with a dataset and need to write some code to sift through it, or want a basic site to document your work, or …, you will be able to with Python.
What topics will we learn?¶
See the course outline.
but basically, we will learn the basics of Python and data structures and move towards useful applications.
What are the prerequisites for this course?¶
If you’re interested in learning Python for the sake of bettering your technical abilities (among a bunch of other possible reasons) then you’re ready for the course.
Some things Python has done for me¶
Why are the course notes a website?¶
This site was created using Sphinx, and most Python libraries are documented this way
What are libraries? Collections of files (modules) which achieve a purpose. i.e. matplotlib –> for creating visualization in Python (a 2D Plot, for example)
How will this class work?¶
It’s completely online
You’ll see new lecture videos posted weekly. Each video will highlight that week’s topic.
On this site, a new page will be added weekly. For this week, you are currently on that page.
You will also see activities (occasional) and assignments on this site.
What should I have for this class¶
A computer
A webcam and mic for Zoom calls and writing the exam (webcam needed for ProctorTrack)
Do I really need to use the OWL and the forums?¶
Course announcements will be made on OWL
Assignments will be submitted on OWL
If you are having trouble with something, likely others are too. Post your question on the forums or check to see if the answer is there.
Special consideration will be given to those who participate frequently on the forums (i.e. bonus points)
If you need help¶
You probably will, so don’t worry if you do.
There are A LOT of resources to help you. You have the OWL forums, Google, Stack Overflow, tutorials, office hours, and so on. Most importantly, you have me, the TAs, and other students (and we’re all here to help you).
Can I write a program now?¶
Probably not. First you should set Python up:
Let’s get set up for CS 2120
Now, load up Python, and type this:
print('Hello, world!')
“Hello, world!” is traditionally the first program one writes in a new language.
For next week¶
Read sections 2.1-2.5 of chapter 2 of the text