[Edu-sig] Teaching Python to Programmers

[Marilyn Davis]

On Sat, 20 Nov 2004, Kent Johnson wrote:

> I am almost done with my Python for beginners course - more about that 
> when it is over. Next term I'm going to try teaching Python to 
> programmers, just for variety. So, a few questions...
> 
> What should I use for a textbook? Learning Python is an obvious choice. 
> I didn't really like Dive into Python so I don't think I will use that. 
> Does anyone recommend Practical Python? I haven't read it and I'm 
> wondering if I should get a copy.
> 
> Here is a blurb for the course catalog. I would be happy for suggested 
> improvements from better writers than I :-)

You want to mention that it is good on all platforms.  It's a flexible
language, perfect for object-oriented programming, scripting, and
rapid prototyping.

You can throw in some buzzwords, saying it's a good language for web
development, GUI, imaging, database, security, networking, ...  just
copy some of the module names.

I'm teaching Python to programmers for the second time.  I started out
using "Python -- How to Program" by Deitel, but it was before the new
"Learning Python" came out.  I do like the order of things better in
the Deitel book, and that it covers some applications: CGI, GUI,
... in depth.  But it is really a basic programming book, teaching
software engineering concepts too.  I ended up teaching from both
books and recommending, but not requiring, both.  I often suggest
reading from the online sources, not only because they are good, but
also to get the students familiar with the treasury of online help.

Good luck!

Marilyn Davis

> 
> ---------------------
> Python for Programmers
> 
> Are you an experienced programmer looking to expand your abilities? 
> Python is an excellent addition to your programming toolkit. Python is 
> an interpreted, interactive, object-oriented programming language which 
> combines remarkable power with exceptional ease-of-use. It is freely 
> available, easy to learn and fun to use! Python's "batteries included" 
> philosophy makes it suitable for a wide variety of applications 
> including utilities, web programming, graphics and games.
> 
> This class is for students with some previous programming experience who 
> want to learn Python.
> --------------------
> 
> Thanks,
> Kent
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