A Gentle Introduction to Programming

This is a gentle introduction to computer programming with the introductory programming language Python. Programs tell computers, step by step, how to do the amazing things they do, and they can stimulate and help evaluate models of our world. Students will learn problem solving and critical thinking in the framework of computational thought, and they will discuss the impact of technology on society. Topics cover fundamental programming concepts including: variables and data types, conditional and iterative control structures, string handling, functions, and testing. Programs will be compared to Java language versions for students interested in continuing computer science studies.