Intro to Python Programming & BBQ

Due to popular demand, I'll be hosting an Intro to Python Programming Class at NSL on Saturday, August 31st from 14:00-19:00. Whether you're new to programming or an experienced programmer who wants to add Python to your toolkit, this class is for you! Come learn Python in a friendly, hands-on environment. I'll be going over all of the basics of Python as well as throwing in some more advanced topics/syntax at the end of the class if there is time and interest.

It is free to attend the class but I strongly encourage a donation (or membership) to NSL to help us keep NSL open and filled with fun toys. Rumor has it there will be a BBQ after the class for those who throw money into the donation bin...

See below for instructions on what you need before the class (Python and a text editor, basically) as well as some introductory material for those who want to get a head start.

Hope to see you all there!
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Prepare your computer before the class:

• Install the Python 2.7 interpreter on your system. Find the applicable installer for Python 2.7.5 at http://python.org/download/

• Install a Python IDE --OR-- an enhanced editor such as Notepad++ --OR-- use Notepad/Vi. These are software that makes programming easier with syntax highlighting, advanced search functions, variable/function autocompletion, etc. These are NOT NECESSARY, but syntax highlighting will be the single most helpful thing you can have to help you learn and identify bugs/typos. I'm a vi purist; can others recommend good IDEs for Windows/Linux?

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Prepare your brain before the class:

• http://docs.python.org/2/tutorial/
• http://learnpython.org
• http://www.codecademy.com/tracks/python

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Prepare your appetite before the class:

• http://tinyurl.com/l5pwgra

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Topics we'll cover:

Why Python is Baller
Variables, Types, Declaration/Assignment & Type Conversion
Arithmetic operations
Bitwise operations
Conditionals/Branching
Loops
Functions
Standard Python Functions
Standard Python Libraries
Advanced Fun (if there is time/interest)
Method chaining
Loop comprehension
Function/class overloading