Module 2: Introduction to Python

This module focuses on the basic features in the Python programming language that underlie most data analytics scripts. First, you will read about why accounting students should learn to write computer programs. Second, you will learn about basic data structures commonly used in Python programs. Third, you will learn how to write functions, which can be repeatedly called, in Python, and how to use them effectively in your own programs. Finally, you will learn how to control the execution process of your Python program by using conditional statements and looping constructs. At the conclusion of this module, you will be able to write Python scripts to perform basic data analytic tasks.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you should be able to:

• articulate how accounting students can benefit from learning to write computer programs,
• write simple Python scripts,
• effectively use the basic Python data structures: list, string, dictionary, and tuple,
• write and use simple Python functions, and
• use conditional statements and loops in a Python script.

Activities and Assignments

Activities and Assignments	Time Estimate	Deadline	Points
Module 2 Overview Video	10 Minutes	N/A	N/A
Module 2 Lesson 1: Why learn to code?	1 Hour	N/A	N/A
Module 2 Lesson 2: Python Data Structures	2 Hours	N/A	N/A
Module 2 Lesson 3: Python Functions	2 Hours	N/A	N/A
Module 2 Lesson 4: Python Flow Control	2 Hours	N/A	N/A
Module 2 Assignment	1 hour	N/A	N/A

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© 2017: Robert J. Brunner at the University of Illinois.

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