Python for Beginners: Task-Based Learning Made Easy

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Module 1: Getting Started

Lesson 1: Python IDE Installation

This class focuses on installing a Python Integrated Development Environment (IDE) using a task-based approach. An IDE provides a comprehensive environment for writing, editing, and running Python code, including features like syntax highlighting, code completion, and debugging tools.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the benefits of using an IDE for Python development.
Identify popular Python IDE options.
Install a chosen Python IDE on your operating system.
Verify successful installation and run a simple Python program.

Task 1: Choosing an IDE

Choose a Python IDE of your choice for coding.

There are several excellent Python IDEs available, each with its own strengths and features. Here are a few popular options:

Visual Studio Code (VS Code): A free, open-source, and lightweight code editor with excellent Python support through extensions.
PyCharm: A powerful, feature-rich IDE with strong debugging and project management tools (free Community Edition or paid Professional Edition).
IDLE: The default IDE included with the standard Python installation (lightweight but offers basic features). Learn more …

Consider these factors when choosing an IDE:

Experience Level: Beginner, intermediate, or advanced?
Features: Syntax highlighting, code completion, debugging, version control, etc.
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux?
Cost: Free or paid?

Recommendation: In this course, you can use any tools to learn Python, but I recommend the following four tools. I will only provide support for these tools. For collaboration and debugging, we will use Replit.

Visual Studio Code (Online, Desktop)
Pydroid 3 - IDE for Python 3 (Mobile App)
Replit (Online, Desktop, Mobile)
Google Colab (Online)

Tips:

Try out a few different IDEs to see which one you like best.
Online Facebook survey: What is the best Python tool/IDE for beginners to learn coding?

Task 2: Installation Process

Install your chosen IDE on your device or use any online/cloud-based tools.

Example: Installing VS Code

Windows:

Install Python from python.org. Use the Download Python button that appears first on the page to download the latest version. Learn more …
Visit the VS Code download page: https://code.visualstudio.com/download
Download the installer for your operating system.
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Once installed, open VS Code.
Install the Python extension for Visual Studio Code(search for “Python” in the Extensions panel).

Task 3: Verification and Running a Python Program

Open the selected IDE.
Write a simple Python program, such as print("Hello, world!").
Run the code.

Example: Visual Studio Code

Open VS Code and create a new Python file (e.g., “hello.py”).
Write a simple Python program (e.g., print("Hello, world!")).
Save the file.
In VS Code, verify syntax highlighting for Python code.
Run the program using the built-in terminal or a Python extension command.
Observe the output in the terminal window (e.g., “Hello, world!”).