INLS 560 is an introduction to computer programming that focuses on language fundamentals and programming techniques for information science use. This course emphasizes problem-solving through the development of practical applications such as text processing, file handling, user interfaces, and database access.

Examples will be used extensively to teach programming concepts and problem-solving techniques. Students should bring their laptops so they can work through examples in class, and should be prepared to spend time outside of class to complete assignments.

This course is an introduction to programming and assumes students have no prior experience. If you know how to program, or want to learn Python, this may not be an effective course for you, as the emphasis is on introductory programming concepts, not the programming language.

• Understand the fundamental concepts and principles of programming
• Learn how to use programming to solve problems
• Learn good programming practices
• Develop a knowledge base that allows you to learn more about Python, and other languages, on your own

REQUIRED TEXT: Starting Out with Python, 3/E by Tony Gaddis

SOFTWARE: Python Intepreter, and PyCharm, an integrated development environment (IDE) for Python.
Instructions on how to download, install, and use the interpreter and PyCharm will be provided in class.