Theme: Python IDE: Idle (Python 3.9) Platform: PC Time Worked: 19 October 2020 - 30 November 2020 (6 Lessons Total)
Aim
To learn a new coding language, specifically Python, as Python is quite useful in creating scripts for other programs and Windows.
Description
The purpose of studying this course was to learn Python, as it seemed like a good way to interface Maya and Unreal Engine 4 together (for the purposes of work). But as I learned more and more about this simple little language, I began to see more and more potential in what I could do with it. For example, Google Sheets has a Python API, and it can be used to script so many other programs too (OBS for example). I feel like in learning this language, the world of automation now lies at my feet!
Challenges
The main challenge of Python is not using any of the C++ syntax! The lack of semi-colons and brackets feel kind of dirty to me, and it’s something that even now I can’t get used to (the backspace key gets used a lot when I’m writing Python scripts). Coming from a language as big and involved as C++, it is strange not to have to worry about pointers, or linker errors, or any of the fun stuff that C++ has to offer. Coding something in Python seems relatively easy (as long as you know the correct functions to use), and so I wouldn’t say there were any other major challenges in learning this language.
Reflection
The Python course was conducted through Sydney Community College, and was run by a very knowledgeable teacher. Though there were often lengthy tangents, it was always interesting learning more and more about the history of computer programming, and he was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable when it came to teaching us Python! All in all, I’m glad I undertook this class and now know the fundamentals, as I honestly believe that I will use this language a fair bit in the future!
Aythan Maconachie 