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Stanford University

Principles of Computing

Stanford University via Stanford OpenEdx

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Overview

Principles of Computing teaches the essential ideas of Computer Science for a zero-prior-experience audience. Computers can appear very complicated, but in reality, computers work within just a few, simple patterns. This course demystifies and brings those patterns to life, which is useful for anyone using computers today.

Participants play and experiment with short bits of "computer code" to bring to life to the power and limitations of computers. Everything works within the browser, so there is no extra software to download or install. The course also provides a general background on computers today: what is a computer, what is hardware, what is software, what is the internet. No previous experience is required other than the ability to use a web browser.

 

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