Name: Problem Solving, Python Programming, and Video Games
Brand: University of Alberta
Availability: OnlineOnly
Rating: 4.3 (77 reviews)

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Learner Reviews & Feedback for Problem Solving, Python Programming, and Video Games by University of Alberta

4.3

stars

233 ratings

About the Course

This course is an introduction to computer science and programming in Python. Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to: 1. Take a new computational problem and solve it, using several problem solving techniques including abstraction and problem decomposition. 2. Follow a design creation process that includes: descriptions, test plans, and algorithms. 3. Code, test, and debug a program in Python, based on your design. Important computer science concepts such as problem solving (computational thinking), problem decomposition, algorithms, abstraction, and software quality are emphasized throughout. This course uses problem-based learning. The Python programming language and video games are used to demonstrate computer science concepts in a concrete and fun manner. The instructional videos present Python using a conceptual framework that can be used to understand any programming language. This framework is based on several general programming language concepts that you will learn during the course including: lexics, syntax, and semantics. Other approaches to programming may be quicker, but are more focused on a single programming language, or on a few of the simplest aspects of programming languages. The approach used in this course may take more time, but you will gain a deeper understanding of programming languages. After completing the course, in addition to learning Python programming, you will be able to apply the knowledge and skills you acquired to: non-game problems, other programming languages, and other computer science courses. You do not need any previous programming, Python, or video game experience. However, several basic skills are needed: computer use (e.g., mouse, keyboard, document editing), elementary mathematics, attention to detail (as with many technical subjects), and a “just give it a try” spirit will be keys to your success. Despite the use of video games for the main programming project, PVG is not about computer games. For each new programming concept, PVG uses non-game examples to provide a basic understanding of computational principles, before applying these programming concepts to video games. The interactive learning objects (ILO) of the course provide automatic, context-specific guidance and feedback, like a virtual teaching assistant, as you develop problem descriptions, functional test plans, and algorithms. The course forums are supported by knowledgeable University of Alberta personnel, to help you succeed. All videos, assessments, and ILOs are available free of charge. There is an optional Coursera certificate available for a fee....

Top reviews

Oct 2, 2021

excellent course. The syntax analysis was rather hard at times but it gave a more systematic approach to programming. What gained over programming skills is actually efficiency in programming.

Sep 27, 2022

This course helps a lot in understanding the algorithms of programming. Moreover, the way of learning is helpful to understand other languages other than python.

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51 - 75 of 77 Reviews for Problem Solving, Python Programming, and Video Games

By Idrees E

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Oct 6, 2022

It is a good course for beginners. i really like this course

By Redouane M

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Nov 16, 2022

Thank you for the work you done it was very helpful

By Yousef A

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Jul 20, 2020

I learned a lot about python. thank you so much

By Ekaterina V

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Dec 19, 2022

Excellent course for beginners!

By 21_A0523 S S

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May 2, 2023

Excellent course to take .

By David O

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Nov 10, 2022

Very Good

By Carlos M M C

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Aug 27, 2022

Great

By godwin s

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Aug 1, 2022

good

By Sahil K

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Jul 12, 2020

This Course was very interesting to complete. It taught me many problem solving techniques, and had a great time to learn Python programming.

By Andy W

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Oct 25, 2022

Great course! However, not sure all the lexical stuff helped me doing the actual code writing, at least for me.

By Deleted A

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May 13, 2020

it is very good for students that interested in game industry and want to improve problem solving skills

By Francisco D

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Apr 15, 2022

muy interesante y uitl

By Greg F

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Sep 4, 2022

This course seems like it could be interesting but the initial legwork to get the software and everything is too steep. I cannot find good instructions for installing the Virtual Machine on Windows, so I cannot finish lesson 1. There is a bit too much theoretical discussion at the beginning, which might pay off in the long run but is not the most enticing element. Seeing the games, I really wanted to get started in programming, but I cannot install the VM properly. I was excited when I got Python installed directly on my machine but the VM lacks Windows-OS instructions.

By Keso T

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Oct 29, 2023

I am incredibly grateful for this course. The depth and detail of the content provided me with an extensive understanding of the subject matter. I have learned a lot, and I am truly appreciative. I plan to revisit the course to further reinforce my knowledge due to its comprehensive nature. Thank you for this amazing learning experience!

By Shanda H

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Jan 19, 2024

The students at the University of Alberta are extremely fortunate to have you all set the foundation for their careers. This course is excellent!!!!

By Eswari J

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Jan 9, 2024

This course is very good . very comprehensive course in python. thank you very much

By Baade S

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Jul 2, 2024

I found the course very helpful for programming in Python.

By Vibhu V

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Aug 30, 2023

good but the class definition is sussy

By Chachawan

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Oct 23, 2023

Thanks you very much to all teacher.

By Eyesmart

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Sep 12, 2023

Awesome

By Ibrahim M

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Nov 26, 2024

The way of teaching was great! I had a lot of fun, for the coding part atleast, the semantic/lexical/syntax analysis was absolute hell, i did NOT enjoy that, but I'm sure its useful. Overall, 8/10. :D