TECH 19 — A Practical Introduction to Python: From Fundamentals to AI Applications
Quarter: Summer
Instructor(s): Scott Simpson
Date(s): Jul 7—Aug 25
Class Recording Available: Yes
Class Meeting Day: Tuesdays
Grade Restriction: No letter grade
Class Meeting Time: 5:30—7:00 pm (PT)
Tuition: $470
Refund Deadline: Jul 9
Unit(s): 1
Enrollment Limit: 55
Status: Registration opens May 18, 8:30 am (PT)
Quarter: Summer
Day: Tuesdays
Duration: 8 weeks
Time: 5:30—7:00 pm (PT)
Date(s): Jul 7—Aug 25
Unit(s): 1
Tuition: $470
Refund Deadline: Jul 9
Instructor(s): Scott Simpson
Grade Restriction: No letter grade
Enrollment Limit: 55
Recording Available: Yes
Status: Registration opens May 18, 8:30 am (PT)
Python is a widely used and flexible programming language adopted across many fields. It enables you to build software, automate tasks, and connect programs and data. It is also central to modern AI development—whether calling APIs, processing data, or building systems that respond intelligently.
This course begins with core Python concepts and the Python Standard Library. While AI tools can help you write code faster, understanding the fundamentals allows you to read what AI generates, catch mistakes, and adapt code to your needs. The goal is to build enough fluency that you remain in control.
As you learn, you will apply these skills by building a custom AI chatbot step by step, using variables, control structures, functions, and collections to connect your code to a live AI model. By the end, you will have both a strong foundation and a working project that demonstrates what you can build.
This course begins with core Python concepts and the Python Standard Library. While AI tools can help you write code faster, understanding the fundamentals allows you to read what AI generates, catch mistakes, and adapt code to your needs. The goal is to build enough fluency that you remain in control.
As you learn, you will apply these skills by building a custom AI chatbot step by step, using variables, control structures, functions, and collections to connect your code to a live AI model. By the end, you will have both a strong foundation and a working project that demonstrates what you can build.
No prior programming experience is required. This course focuses on Python fundamentals, with limited exposure to Python libraries such as NumPy, Pandas, etc.
SCOTT SIMPSON
Technical Instructor
Scott Simpson is a technology instructor at LinkedIn Learning and a software developer with over 25 years of IT and software development experience. He works primarily in Python, SQL, and Bash, building software and tools for video production and information-based workflows. He has taught on a wide range of topics, including Python, Linux, SQL, and IT infrastructure. He received a BA and an MA from San Diego State. Textbooks for this course:
(Optional) Bill Lubanovic, Introducing Python: Modern Computing in Simple Packages, 3rd Edition (ISBN 978-1098174408)