About the course | Intended audience | Prerequisites | Content details
About the course
A beginner-friendly introduction to programming using the Python programming language.
Python is one of the most widely used and versatile programming languages in research, data science and software development. This course introduces the core principles of programming through practical examples and hands-on exercises, with a focus on building confidence and problem-solving skills.
The course covers fundamental programming concepts including Python syntax, variables, data types, operators, functions and control structures. Participants are also introduced to working with files, software libraries and the basics of object-oriented programming.
By the end of the course, participants should be able to:
- understand how programming with Python can support research and everyday computational tasks
- write simple Python programs using core language features and control structures
- work with variables, data types, loops, functions and conditional statements
- understand the basics of working with files and installing Python libraries
- have an introductory awareness of object-oriented programming concepts
- confidently continue learning and adapting Python code for their own projects
Teaching is primarily hands-on, combining short presentations with live coding demonstrations and guided practical exercises throughout.
Back to top Intended audience
This course is suitable for:
- researchers and students with little or no prior programming experience
- participants looking for a practical introduction to coding using Python
- researchers interested in developing computational skills for data analysis and automation
- participants with some prior coding experience who want to refresh their understanding of programming fundamentals
Prerequisites
No prior programming experience is required.
The course is designed for complete beginners, although participants with some previous coding experience may also benefit from the exercises and refresher material.
Content details
The course combines lectures, demonstrations and hands-on exercises delivered through slides, live coding sessions and dedicated online training materials.
Topics covered include:
- Introduction to Python programming
Getting started with Python, including running code, understanding the programming environment and writing simple scripts. Participants learn the foundations of computational problem solving using practical examples.
- Variables, data types and operators
Introduction to Python variables and core data types such as numbers, strings, lists and dictionaries. Participants learn how to manipulate and combine data using standard operators and expressions.
- Control structures and program flow
Using conditional statements and loops to control how programs behave. The session coversif,elif,else,forandwhilestatements through practical coding exercises.
- Functions and reusable code
Writing and using functions to organise and reuse code effectively. Participants learn how to define functions, pass arguments and structure simple programs.
- Working with files and software libraries
Reading from and writing to files, installing Python packages and working with external libraries to extend Python functionality for research applications.
- Introduction to object-oriented programming
Overview of classes, objects and the principles of object-oriented programming, together with an introduction to context managers and good coding practices.
Participants leave the course with a working Python setup, practical example code and reference materials that can be adapted for their own research and analysis tasks.