The Tutorials

Here are the three free online tutorials we’ll be using. They are all chosen to ease you into programming in the gentlest way possible. There’s no rush – you’ll work at whatever pace you’re most comfortable with, and during the meetings we’ll have one or more coaches available if you get stuck.

1. To get you going in the easiest way possible, we’ll start with CodeAcademy’s Learn Python. This requires no setup at all, and will quickly show you what programming feels like.

2. Next you’ll get a bit more depth with Learn Python the Hard Way. Don’t be fooled by the title – it’s actually one of the easier introductions to the language.

3. Finally you’ll work your way through the DjangoGirls Tutorial and learn to build a programmable web site. This tutorial is legendary for its friendliness and simplicity. The lessons in the tutorial also include links to associated videos.

4. At this point we can direct you to further learning resources depending on your interests; for example you might want to start programming MineCraft or explore the “Internet of Things” using MicroPython. Or you might have a special project you’d like to tackle.