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kelaiah

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Structuring a lesson of Python for beginners. Any suggestion how to start?

Hi,

How should I begin to teach a class an introduction to programming by using Python? Should I start by writing my own course content? If so how?

Further question, is there an appropriate textbook out there that I can use for my purpose? I have been using Python and C++ for quite sometime, however, creating a lessons for a complete beginner in Python programming from 0, for me, is a big project.

Chiefly, the students that I am about to face comes from diverse background, students, teachers, cooks, web designers, historians, librarians, etc. Some only knows MS-Word, Excel and checking emails. Some don't have a clue what a RAM is. If I say, "please open up a terminal window," or "launch your IDE," I might get 60-90% blank faces.

Having a class of an undergraduate students at uni is fine, as they have about the same prior knowledge of computing and programming. But how should I approach a very diverse audience with none or little programming experience but want to learn the basic of programming by using Python?

Your suggestions to help my students would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
kelaiah
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HonorGod
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kelaiah

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@ Honor God, You are correct, I am no expert in designing course material, I only know how to use Python to make things run. Thanks for the links. I'm surprised that I never notice those links before! By the way, could you explain, what do you mean by "Don't "talk down" to (patronize) the students."?

@pepr, those who enroll are definitely those who are curious, about programming. So, rest assured, there won't be any lazy student in there. Only, how to keep them engaged, without chase them away from the unit.

I will wait for further replies, if not I will award the points. Thank you for your feedback and patience.
I have encountered some "instructors" who felt the need to say things in a way that make the students feel bad about their lack of knowledge & experience.  That's what I was talking about.  Please forgive me if I didn't express myself well.

When I take a class, I want to ask questions to be certain that I learn about the topic.

I would strongly encourage you to get the students involved with questions, as well as answers.

Good luck!
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The solution incorporated some important aspects to consider when teaching programming to newbies. Important links were given to brainstorm and how not to scare away your students.
Thanks for the grade & points.

Good luck & have a great day.