[EuroPython-Announce] EuroPython 2015: Beginner’s Day

[M.-A. Lemburg]

We’re pleased to announce a new venture at this year’s EuroPython...

                *** The EuroPython Beginner’s Day ***

         https://ep2015.europython.eu/en/events/beginners-day/

If you’re thinking of coming to the conference but you’re new to
Python, this could be the session for you. Whether you’re totally new
to programming or you already know another language, this day is to
give you a crash-course in Python, and the ecosystem around it, to
give you the context you need to get the most out of EuroPython.

Bring your laptop, as a large part of the day will be devoted to
learning Python on your own PC. This session will take place on the
first day of the conference, the Monday. It will be presented in
English (although a few of the coaches do speak basic Spanish, French
and Italian).

Sessions will include:

 * A high-level introduction to Python and programming in general.
   Where did Python come from, what is programming all about, and what
   do I need to know to understand all these in-jokes about cheese
   shops?

 * A self-directed learning session, with specific tutorials for total
   beginners and more experienced programmers, accompanied by coaches
   who will be there to answer your questions and help you when you
   get stuck.  Learn at your own pace!

 * A session on the Python “ecosystem”  An introduction to the Python
   ecosystem: some topics and bits of jargon that are bound to come up
   this week: open source, free software, github, packages, pip, pypi,
   scientific computing, scipy, numpy, pandas, ipython notebook, web
   frameworks, django, flask, asyncio, the BDFL, the Zen of Python,
   etc etc.  What are the tools, areas of interest, in-jokes, people
   of note.

 * “How to get the best out of the conference” - recommended talks,
   what to do at lunchtimes or in the evenings, tips on when and how
   to ask questions (hint: as often as possible!), what an “open
   space” is, and more.

We really need to get an idea of numbers for this session, so if you
are interested in attending, please drop a quick email to Harry
Percival <obeythetestinggoat at gmail.com> from the program work group.

Also, be sure to get your tickets in time, since ticket sales have
picked up a lot since we announced the schedule.

PS: We’re also looking for volunteers to help with coaching students
during this session. If you enjoy teaching Python to beginners, and
you don’t mind sacrificing your EuroPython Monday to it, please do get
in touch with Harry Percival <obeythetestinggoat at gmail.com> !

Enjoy,
--
EuroPython 2015 Team
http://ep2015.europython.eu/
http://www.europython-society.org/