The world of coding and programming is exciting. It’s filled with creativity and provides ample opportunity to solve problems or make technology accessible for all. If you want to carve out a career in innovation, programming or coding might be the right thing for you. You'll have to learn how to write a string, a set of instructions to computers, and with so many different programming languages out there you might be wondering where to start?
Learning a new programming language can also be quite a challenge. Beginners are faced with syntax errors, debugging issues and sometimes don’t even know how to approach troubleshooting. Code can be complex and was created with the assumption that users are professionals who know their way around the basic concepts.
Whether you want to code for game development, develop apps, computer programs or work with data learning, Python is one of the best programming language for first timers according to expert computer scientists. Knowing the computer language you want to learn is a great start, but you’ll also have to then find the right place to study and the support of an experienced Python coder to help you through those initial challenges.
This article will get you started with methods and examples for learning Python, right here in Port Elizabeth.
Are you ready to take the first step towards the career of your dreams?
The Popularity of Python Coding for Beginners
Programming languages were originally developed to improve on other existing ones. With time these all became more and more specialised to focus on solving specific coding, program or computer problems. Some are used across multiple platforms and for a variety of functions, but there tend to be code that is usually more suited to some tasks than other.
Developers, coders and programmers will sometimes argue over what they think is the best code for a beginner to learn. Their opinions are based on their work experience, project background and level of exposure to a specific code. Python has however been consistently at the top of the list when it comes to the most popular programming language under developers.
Here are some of the reasons why Python continues to be popular:
- It has simplified syntax and is thus easy to learn and use. With a natural language emphasis, it is easier to write, and coders can execute it much faster than other computer languages
- It is incredibly flexible, not only in what it is used for, but also in how easily developers can create something new with it. Whether it is big data, machine learning or applications around cloud computing, Python is applicable and a first language choice for programmers due to the demand for it in the market
- It is quite universal and reliable. It can be used in almost any environment and applicable for all industries
- It offers thousands of third-party Python libraries and a massive, mature and supportive community of Python coders across the globe
Learning an easy coding language, like Python, is thus the easier and smarter choice if you plan to learn coding for the first time. Not only will it lay a strong foundation for future projects and a career in programming, computers or development, but it is also generic in nature and can be used in functions like marketing, fintech and analytics.
Consider taking python course for beginners here.
The Best Computer Programming Languages
There are however a list of additional programming languages a coder and programmer can master. It will be good to have a basic understanding of the best ones out there as it will ensure you apply the best code for the job. This very short list will give you overview of some loved languages, but if you want o become an advanced coder, you'll have to understand their function and maybe even do an introduction module, course or tutorial on some.
JavaScript
This popular language is used for front-end and back-end development. It adds responsiveness to web pages and is thus useful in web development, mobile app development and game development.
C / C++
C or C++ Proficiency will make the learning other programming languages a bit easier. It is object orientated and generally used in software or applications that has a heavy graphics component to it.
JAVA
Another example of a widely used multi-paradigm programming language. Java is more suited to back-end development but is also has object orientated capabilities that can be used with procedural programming. Most android applications make use of Java, but it is also quite useful in big data development and also used for mobile computing, games and desktop computing.
Most computer scientists are well acquainted with one or a couple of these languages and being skilled in one of the above will immediately open doors for newcomers to the world of coding and technology. We recommend you develop a basic understanding of the functions of the various languages programmers are using these days before you decide to specialise in any of them.
Discover various python coding lessons here.
Where to Learn Python Programming in Port Elizabeth
You can learn Python from a variety of institutions in Port Elizabeth or with the help of technology, get a qualification at an international institution from your desktop. For most young students the toughest decision is deciding what to specialise in and by completing a generalist qualification they get the necessary exposure to better make this decision.
If you plan a career in ITC, then we would recommend you develop a broad-based understanding of everything computer-related. Knowing code and writing in Python is only one aspect of programming and a broad based degree in Computer Science will expose students to. Most of them include a module or tutorials to cover topics like software development, programming, coding, artificial intelligence, hardware, network development, to mention a few.
Did you know that some online institutions offer free, beginner modules on Python?
If you are already working full-time, curious about Python or simply want to add coding skills to your current skill set, then we recommend you do a diploma, free Python module or short course online. A Python tutor is ideal for those who plan to learn with free resources; with flexible classes in Python you'll get help to tackle the tricky things like Syntax errors, debugging or setting up your own project ideas and python projects.
Online Learning & MOOCs
Many colleges and tertiary institutions across the globe have made their ITC qualifications available online for students. This makes it possible for you to study courses in Python, any other language, Programming or even complete a degree in data science with institutions like IBM, the University of Michigan or the University of Cape Town.
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are probably the most popular when it comes to technology, coding and programming qualifications nowadays. Online providers like Coursera, EdX, Udacity, Codecademy, Futurelearn and Udemy, offer coding modules and a Python course for a student of any level.
Many MOOCs offer their beginner program or basic modules for free in an attempt to interest students into studying further towards the completion of an advanced qualification. Beginner coders can search for a beginner python course to get started.
MOOCs are an example of how modern technology provides alternatives for people to get qualified, regardless of your location. Be sure you read more about MOOCs and find out why this is seen as one of the the best ways of learning your first code.
Nelson Mandela University
One of the best general qualification you can get is a degree in computer science and if you want to study on campus, dedicate three years to getting your qualification and improve your chances of landing a job, a Bachelor of Science at the Nelson Mandela University could be one of the best options in Port Elizabeth.
Like most universities they have strict admission requirements and one of those is a minimum score of 65% for mathematics and a national certificate. Studying full-time can also be expensive, so ensure you have the necessary financial support once you enrol.
Varsity College (School of Information Technology)
With a variety of part time and full time qualifications, Varsity college is one of the tertiary institutions that offers classes and courses in most south African cities. If you are interested in entering the ITC sector you can do their Bachelor of computer and information sciences around application development.
You can also do a higher certificate in mobile applications and web development and during this qualification you will learn about the various coding languages , work on python data projects or create games like tic tac toe, using data. Ensure you contact the campus in Port Elizabeth to double check as courses and modules change every couple of years.
Pearson Institute of Higher Education
Offering a higher certificate in Information Systems Machine Learning, you’ll be exposed to Python to get a greater grasp on back-end development. Python like all programming languages is chosen by most universities as core language to teach. This qualification is about much more than just coding, but double check if python is still a core module when you choose to enrol and complete a qualification with them.
Consulting the Help of a Coding Tutor in Port Elizabeth
Reputation and experience are everything when it comes to starting a career in coding and you’d want the help of an expert Python coder if you are only starting out, especially if you have not completed a formal qualification. They will help you while you start out and work your way towards creating a credible list of Python projects completed (portfolio).
On Superprof we have a selection of qualified Python tutors who will give you a once-off Python tutorial to address a specific concern you have, or they can help to create a lesson plan to get you Python proficient. You can work on your own Python code and they will provide tips for learning Python, answer your questions and propose a number of Python projects and games to upskill you.
Book a personal tutoring lesson with one of our tutors and benefit in the following ways:
- They will offer a personalised approach with tailor made lessons for you
- You will get the undivided attention of an experienced tutor and there will be no disruptions or distractions from other classmates
- You’ll learn and move at your own pace
- You can structure lessons and classes according to your needs, availability and budget
Browse for Python coding and programmer tutors right here on Superprof and book your first tutorial today. Most of our tutors offer their first lesson for free.
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