Course Rationale:  This is an entry level programming course designed to teach students the basic concepts of computer programming.  The course will include designing, coding, debugging, testing, and documenting programs using a high level programming language.  The course is intended to prepare students for a programming-oriented academic path.  This course in include in several degree plans including:

• Associate of Applied Science – Computer Programming
• Associate of Applied Science – Web Programming
• Associate of Applied Science – Game and Visualization Programming
• Associate of Applied Science – Information Technology Application
• Associate of Applied Science – Software Testing
• Associate of Science – Computer Science

Grade Policy:

An overall grade will be assigned on the following grading scale:

90%  - 100%         A

80%  -  89%          B

70%  -  79%          C

60%  -  69%          D

0%    -  59%          F

Course Requirements

Approved Course Texts/Readings:

Starting out with Python, Fourth Edition, Tony Gaddis, Addison Wesley, 2018 

Textbook bundle with My Programming Lab

ISBN-13:  978-013-454-366-6

Introduces the fundamental concepts of structured programming. 

Topics include software development methodology, data types, control structures, functions, arrays, and the mechanics of running, testing, and debugging.  This course assumes computer literacy. 

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate problem solving skills by developing and implementing algorithms to solve problems.

2. Derive problem specifications from problem statements.

3. Develop algorithms using modular design principles to meet stated specifications.

4. Create code to provide a solution to problem statements ranging from simple to complex.

5. Test and debug programs and program modules to meet specifications and standards.

6. Create programs that contain clear and concise program documentation.

7. Implement programs that use data types and demonstrate an understanding of numbering systems.

8. Incorporate both basic and advanced control structures appropriately into algorithms.

9. Demonstrate an understanding of structure design by implementing programs with functions, including parameter passing and value returning.

10. Implement programs using classes, including strings and files.

11. Implement algorithms using one-dimensional and indexed data structures.

12. Demonstrate an understanding of array searching and sorting algorithms by desk-checking and/or modifying algorithm implementations.

13. Design and implement simple classes.