Question

I want to begin learning the 6.01SC course from home but I'm a little weary about using Python . I've heard C++ is more commonly used later on and it's also what I'll be using in my next term of uni , so could I just work the problems out using C++ considering I'm learning from home and won't be using any of their in lab robotic equipment?

Answer 1

Python has its merits, and I'm just a beginning student as well when it comes to programming and CS, but I know that the course would feel a lot more fluid if done in Python. The examples in class are done in Python, and the course discusses some topics that may be unique to Python, or vastly different in syntax than C++. The readings provide examples in Python, as well. That being said, if you think you can decipher the code in Python and create parallel examples in C++, the first fourth of the course may be your toughest. Units 2, 3, and 4 are less programming; more circuits and signals, etc.

In my case, I have a fairly thorough understanding of Python from a course I took at uni, and had just taught myself Java using the Java course on OCW, and I am taking this course regardless of the fact that my courses next semester are in Java. The knowledge that you will garner from this course will benefit your C++ skills, even if you do it in Python! The "Python Tutorial" part of the course would all that would be necessary to get you up to speed. This is found within the 6.01 course.

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Cheers for the info! I've coded before in structured , markup and object oriented languages , C , Java and HTML , so don't think I'll have too much trouble deciphering the code , and it'll be good practice in the long run , but still pressed with time and my major is Physics so I'm looking on learning a few courses that peak my interest and help me obtain my own credits in my uni course .