Course Description and Competencies

What to Expect

This course is organized into three modules. Each module consists of multiple lessons containing multiple pages. As you progress through the lessons and pages of each module, complete the content elements provided. Once you have completed the assignment as indicated, proceed to the next lesson and continue your progress. Lessons may also include links to videos or articles, illustrations and sample Python scripts, and exercises to refine your skills.

Review all course materials to successfully complete the assessment. Each module ends with a test, but these tests are not meant to reveal any characteristics about the format or design of the final assessment. Instead, they are designed to help you recall the essential concepts of the course material. 

Course Competencies

This course covers the following competencies:

  • The learner identifies programming elements and algorithmic thinking as part of computer programming tasks.
  • The learner identifies troubleshooting strategies in coding, including methods for developing resilience.
  • The learner determines how to run queries for creation and manipulation of data in relational databases.

Assessment

The assessment provides an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of the competencies in this course. You must achieve a ranking of Competent on the assessment to pass the course. You may attempt the assessment two times before additional support is necessary. If you require further attempts, please contact your Student Experience Team.

1 Final Exam
3 Competency Units

Course Outline

ModuleUpon completion of this module, you will be able to:
Algorithmic Thinking and Programming
  • Identify the basics of programming and algorithmic thinking.
  • Solve problems using algorithms.
  • Understand programming languages.
  • Effectively program in Python
Troubleshooting and Debugging
  • Identify troubleshooting strategies.
  • Create and test hypotheses.
  • Identify and fix errors.
  • Understand the integrated development environment (IDE).
  • Use AI to debug code.
Relational Databases and SQL
  • Understand the basics of databases.
  • Understand structured query language (SQL).
  • Identify and use database relational models.
  • Implement database normalization techniques.
  • Identify and implement robust security measures.

Technology Requirements

We want you to have the tools to succeed! Since this course includes at least one proctored test, please be sure to have a working microphone, speakers, and an external webcam. Unfortunately, an internal webcam (built into many laptops) is not acceptable. (Note: The external webcam is required only for exams that have proctors. You do not need one for practice tests and other non-proctored assessments.) If you haven't already, be sure to download the Meazure Learning Guardian browser, which you will need for the proctoring system.

You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. If you haven't already, download this free software. You may encounter an interactive form that contains fields that you can select or fill in. Review how to fill in a PDF form.

For other details about the technology you'll need, review the Computer System and Technology Requirements. If you have questions about your setup, contact support@academy.wgu.edu.

Key Contacts

Certificate Connect
Check out this online community to take advantage of course resources, including videos and tips from your educators. You can ask and answer questions, provide feedback on your progress, and interact with fellow students. You will find this platform in the Student Resources section of the course. Log on and do some exploring!

Tutor.com
If you need academic support, don’t hesitate to contact Tutor.com. There, you have access to thousands of tutors. And they are available 24/7 from any internet-ready device. You can also benefit from instructional videos, study tools, and other assistance. 

Technical Support
If you encounter technical issues, be sure to contact the Help Desk. Just submit a Support Request for assistance.

Program Support
Do you have questions about your account? Student Support has answers. They can help with billing, switching courses, and other requests. You can contact them at (888) 320-0540 or support@academy.wgu.edu.

Accommodations

WGU provides compliant and accessible learning experiences. If you require accommodation, please contact us at the start of the course. You can email disability@academy.wgu.edu.

We are committed to ensuring that all students with disabilities have equal access to WGU's services and materials. We strive to use best practices for accessibility. Our goal is to conform to existing U.S. laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Our learning management system (LMS) platform is Open edX. Open edX’s commitment to accessible content is published in their Website Accessibility Policy.