Intro to Coding & Computational Thinking

You will learn how to:

• Think like a coder: Break big problems into smaller steps and design clear, logical solutions.
• Write and read Python code: Use variables, functions, loops, and conditionals to make your programs do exactly what you want.
• Understand how apps use code: See how coding powers things you use every day, like Snapchat, Instagram, and Siri.
• Build creative projects: Experiment with code to make interactive programs, simple games, and playful effects (like AI-style face filters).
• Debug with confidence: Trace errors, fix bugs, and turn “why isn’t this working?” into “I got it!”
• Connect math and code: Use ideas from algebra and functions in real programs, so the math you know starts to feel useful and alive.
• Experiment with code to make interactive programs

You should already be comfortable with:

• Basic algebra skills (working with variables, simple functions, and patterns)
• Familiarity with mathematical functions like sine, cosine and what cos(x) + sin(x) means
• Spending 4–6 hours per week working steadily and submitting your best work
• Asking the instructional team for help when you’re stuck or want to go deeper

The course is online and asynchronous. No prior coding experience is assumed.

A personal computer and access to the internet will be required for each lesson.

By completing the coding assignments and the accompanying reflection activities, you’ll earn an online certificate from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Michigan.

For this course, you can earn online certificates in:

• Intro to Coding and Computational Thinking
• Metacognitive Practices in Coding

These not‑for‑credit certificates of accomplishment let you show colleges the skills you’ve learned and your ability to learn in a self-regulated manner.

“This course made coding feel approachable. I went from being intimidated by code to actually enjoying solving problems step by step.”

“Writing my first real program was such a rush. Seeing something I built actually run made me feel like I could learn anything.”

“I finally understood what ‘computational thinking’ means. Breaking problems into smaller pieces made everything click.”

“I loved how the course taught me to think logically, not just memorize commands. It changed how I approach problems in every subject.”

“Debugging used to scare me. Now it feels like detective work—frustrating at first, but so satisfying when you find the issue.”

“I didn’t expect to enjoy coding this much. The way it was taught made the logic feel intuitive and even kind of elegant.”

“The professor and coaches were incredibly supportive. Whenever I got stuck, they helped me understand the why, not just the fix.”

“This course gave me confidence. I realized I can learn technical skills that once felt out of reach.”

“By the end, I wasn’t just writing code—I was thinking like a coder. That mindset is something I’ll use far beyond this class.”