Course Goals
- Understand the benefits of programming in IT roles.
- Write simple Python programs.
- Grasp fundamental programming concepts.
- Solve a complex programming problem using Python. This involves creating a program designed to tackle a real-world IT challenge.
Course Content & Approach
The course begins with fundamental programming concepts, delivered through interactive exercises and real-world examples. The focus is on automation – using code to automate tasks typically performed manually. While not exhaustive in its coverage of software engineering, the course aims to equip students with the ability to identify and automate tasks in their IT environments. The instructor emphasizes a supportive learning environment, encouraging students to rewatch videos, practice, and take their time to grasp concepts.
Instructor’s Perspective
Christine Rafla, the instructor, shares her experience as a Google Systems Administrator, highlighting the diversity and problem-solving nature of her role. She emphasizes the value of automation in streamlining IT tasks and its contribution to career growth within IT (e.g., into roles like Systems Administrator, Cloud Solutions Engineer, DevOps Specialist, Site Reliability Engineer). She draws parallels between learning a new language (she speaks several) and learning to program, stressing the importance of starting small, mastering the basics, and practicing consistently.
Key Takeaways
- The course is designed for IT professionals seeking career advancement through automation.
- It focuses on practical application and real-world problem-solving using Python.
- A supportive learning environment is emphasized, encouraging practice and repetition.
- While not a comprehensive software engineering course, it provides a strong foundation in essential programming and scripting concepts.
Note: The introduction mentions the course’s filming location (a Google office game room), suggesting a visually engaging learning experience.