ACES: Python for New Programmers
Overview
Instructor(s): Dr. Josh Winchell
Time: Tuesday, February 3, 2026 10:00AM-4:00PM CT (with a 1-hour lunch break)
Location: Online using Zoom
Prerequisite(s): Current ACCESS ID
This short course for new programmers (no programming experience required) introduces concepts of programming and the Python programming language. Exercises will be performed in the learner's web browser in Jupyter Notebooks running in the Open OnDemand portal of the ACES cluster. This course will establish a foundation for HPRC courses taught later in the semester that will cover data science and AI in Python.
Course Materials
- Into to Python Slides (Spring 2026): PDF
- Lesson 1: Jupyter-and-Hello Jupyter Notebook
- Lesson 2: Elements of Code Jupyter Notebook
- Lesson 3: Python Control Structures Jupyter Notebook
Participation
During the training, attendees are expected to use their own computer and complete the instructor-led examples and exercises.
Learning Objectives and Agenda
In this course, participants will:
- Access the ACES cluster via the Open OnDemand portal
- Learn to use the Jupyter Notebook IDE for Python Programming
- Establish a foundation to be ready for future Python learning
This course's topics are organized roughly as follows:
- Using Jupter Notebook and Hello World
- Comments in Code
- Data types
- Operators
- Variables
- Functions
- Tuples
- Multiline statements
- Indentation
- Control Structures
- Loops