Python programming: working with data

CO433 Online course

In this course you’ll learn about data types, and how data structures are manipulated in Python programs. It will help you stretch your top end students who want to know more about programming and using data.

Data & information Programming Key stage 4

Free online course 6 hours

During the course you’ll learn about data types, and how data structures are manipulated in Python programs. You’ll create and edit files that can store data for later use, as you begin to develop simple software applications.

New program code almost always contains errors; you’ll become adept at debugging - testing the functionality of your code then identifying and correcting errors.

This course will deepen your knowledge, up to GCSE level which will help boost confidence when teaching key topics to students.

Who is it for?

This course is designed for teachers of KS4 computer science.

Topics covered

Subroutines - explore the purpose of functions in programming. Learn how local and global variables are used when defining and calling functions in Python.
Working with subroutines - develop your own working programs using subroutines.
Lists and arrays - discover how lists are used in Python to store data values. Interact with lists using commands such as append & remove. Learn how to create and access a two-dimensional list in Python.
Working with lists and arrays - develop your own working programs using lists and arrays.
Reading and writing using files - learn how to read and display content from a text file to a user, understand the difference and construct code that will write or append to a text file.

How long is this course?

This course is approximately 6 hours of self directed learning.

How will you learn?

This online, self-paced course can be completed flexibly. You can join and start this course at any time after the advertised date, and keep access for a year after booking.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will:

Understand why modular programs are easier to understand, build and maintain.
Include user-written and built-in functions in programs, passing data between functions and main programs.
Learn about variable scope and how it affects subroutines and functions.
Understand the need for structured data, and manipulate simple data in Python lists
Explain the differences between commonly used file formats, and manipulate their contents using Python code
Develop confidence in leading your students as they develop their programming skills

This course is part of Teach secondary computing

Teach secondary computing

Our nationally recognised qualification will give you confidence to take your computing teaching to the next level and to apply those skills in the classroom.

Find out more