Introduction to Python Programming for Business

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Understand Python Fundamentals: Demonstrate comprehension of Python syntax, data types, variables, and basic programming concepts.
2. Apply Control Structures: Implement conditional statements, loops, and logical operators to create functional program flows.
3. Utilise Data Structures: Create and manipulate Python lists, tuples, dictionaries, and sets for efficient data management.
4. Develop Functions and Modular Code: Design reusable functions, understand scope, and apply modular programming principles.
5. Implement File Handling and Error Management: Read from and write to files, handle exceptions, and debug Python programs effectively.

Instructional Materials:

• Comprehensive course workbook and lecture notes (digital format)
• Access to curated online Python tutorials and resources
• Code examples and solution templates
• Practice exercises with solutions

Learning Resources:

• Supplementary reading materials and reference guides
• Python cheat sheets and quick reference cards

Software and Tools:

Guidance on free, open-source software installation (Python, IDE)

Assessment and Support:

• All coursework assignments and assessments
• Feedback on submitted assignments
• Certificate of completion

Not Included:

• Personal computer or laptop (required for self-study and during lessons)
• Textbooks (recommended reading list provided, but not mandatory)

Assessment Components:

Continuous Assessment (60%):

Weekly programming exercises (60%)

Final Practical Assessment (40%):

• 2-hour hands-on coding, offline project-based practical
• Minimum passing grade: 50% overall

Target Audience

This course is specifically designed for:

Primary Target Groups:

1. Complete Programming Beginners:
   • Individuals with no prior coding experience who want to learn their first programming language.
   • Students exploring software development as a potential career path within a practical business setting.
2. Career Changers:
   • Professionals from non-technical backgrounds transitioning into technology roles.
   • Individuals seeking to enhance their employability with programming skills.
3. Undergraduate Students:
   • Students from various disciplines (business, science, humanities) requiring Python for academic projects.
4. Business Professionals:
   • Data analysts, marketers, or managers wanting to automate tasks.
   • Professionals seeking to understand technical concepts for better team collaboration.
5. Hobbyists and Enthusiasts:
   • Individuals interested in programming for personal projects.
   • Technology enthusiasts wanting to understand how software works.

Suitable For:

• Ages 16+ (with appropriate educational background).
• Both full-time students and working professionals.
• Individuals committed to self-directed learning.
• Those comfortable with digital learning environments.

Not Suitable For:

• Experienced programmers seeking advanced Python topics.
• Individuals looking for specialised Python applications (e.g., machine learning, web development) without foundational knowledge.

Confirmation of Successful Completion

Course Status: Unaccredited Course

Certificate Requirements:

Students who successfully complete at least 70% of the total learning hours (21 hours out of 30) will receive a Certificate of Completion.

Completion Criteria Breakdown:

Verification Methods for Self-Study Hours:

To ensure accountability for self-study hours, the following tracking mechanisms will be implemented:

1. Face-to-Face Participation:
   • Face-to-face participation will be tracked via attendance recording.
2. Practice Exercise Submissions:
   • Weekly coding exercises submitted via LMS.
   • Automatic timestamping of submissions.
3. Self-Assessment Quizzes:
   • Five exercises (one per lesson) to be completed.
   • Minimum pass mark: 50% per quiz.

Assessment Components:

Continuous Assessment (60%):

• Weekly programming exercises (60%).

Final Practical Assessment (40%):

• 2-hour hands-on coding, offline project-based practical.
• Minimum passing grade: 50% overall.

Certificate Issued:

“Certificate of Completion: Introduction to Python Programming for Business”

The certificate will state:

• Student name and identification.
• Course title and total learning hours.
• Dates of course completion.
• Confirmation of completing a minimum of 70% of learning hours.

Additional Programme Information

Assessment Schedule:

Quality Assurance:

• Course materials reviewed annually.
• Student feedback surveys conducted.
• Alignment with current Python standards (Python 3.11+).