Everyone has their own learning style and speed. We adapt to yours using online self-paced tutorials. You move as fast or as slowly as you feel comfortable. If you get stuck or have questions, we have coaches to help.
How It Works
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 we'll have one or more coaches available if you get stuck.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
What You Need
If you've got a laptop computer (Windows, Mac, Linux), bring it. If you don't, the library has some you can use.
Practice Before Theory
You begin coding right away, taking small steps with the hands-on tutorials. Once you get some experience, you have a context for questions, discussions and ideas.
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This approach has been working well for most people, but some folks like a more traditional lecture-first strategy. We are currently searching for appropriate online lectures.
You can just show up at the Crested Butte Library on any Saturday at 9 a.m. You've joined when you add yourself to the mailing list (Select "Subscribe to this group"). You can do this during class if you'd like. This list is only used for class announcements. You can remove yourself at any time.
Location & Times
Crested Butte Library
504 Maroon Ave
Crested Butte, CO
(970) 349-6535
Saturdays 9 - 11 am
Starts June 17, but you can begin any Saturday after that.
Questions? Email mindviewinc@gmail.com
Registration
More Resources
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Our Slack Channel (You'll get an invitation once you register)
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Alternative first-start tutorial: Trinket.io
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Code Visualization: Python Tutor
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Python in the cloud: PythonAnywhere
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Automate The Boring Stuff with Python (Free online introductory book; includes links to books on creating games with Python).
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Learn to Program with Minecraft (Book for sale; introductory using Python for Minecraft)
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Introduction to Computing using Python (a free EDX course).