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Software Development I with Python is the first in the
Professional Development Course Series launched in 2010 by SoftBaugh,
Inc. The course is designed for high school or college level learning
but requires no prior programming knowledge, just basic computer
skills. Fortunately for us "not-so-techy" homeschool parents trying
to teach a techno-savvy teen, a parent doesn't have to have programming
experience to successfully monitor student progress.
Python as a programming language is growing in its uses because
it has the ability to support "cross-platform personal computing
and server development alike." People agree that it is important
to be on the forefront of knowledge when it comes to computer programming
as things quickly become obsolete.
Organized as 64 lessons, 16 tests, and two exams (for a total
of 82 lecture units), this course covers the following topics:
· Python variable, function, class and environment syntax
· Custom module development
· Software development skills and activities
· Python dictionaries, lists, tuples and iterable types
· Command console operations
· List comprehensions
· Python exception handling
· Python operations and commands
· Essential built-in Python library features
· An introduction to Matplotlib
· An introduction to wxPython and windowed development
A benefit to the large number of lessons in Software Development
I with Python is that it breaks the topics down into manageable
bites; thus, the student feels more successful. The course includes
everything a student needs to learn to program in Python: Text
and CD-ROM with Instructor's guide which covers each lesson with
tests, exams, solutions, student handouts, and completed projects.
In the text, e ach chapter includes objectives, discussions,
vocabulary terms, practice exercises, and exercises. Another
important note is that you need to have a computer with Windows
XP or higher and 400 MB of free space (with 1 GB preferred for
maximum performance). So let's get programming!
Product review by Stephanie D. Scarborough, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine,
LLC, October 2010
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