GIS Programming: Module 1 - Introducing Python

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     Welcome back to my blog. For the next few months I will be detailing my experience with        learning Python for use in GIS. As an introduction to Python we practiced running a preexisting Python script in lab. The program set up the folders and subfolders we will need throughout the course. I included a screenshot below showing the result of running the provided program.
     The lab also had us look at 'The Zen of Python' by Tim Peters. It is accessed by typing 'import this' into a Python window as a command prompt. It is a list/poem of the guiding principles of Python as proposed by the BDFL (Benevolent Dictator For Life), Guido van Rossum.

This is a screen shot displaying the result of the Python script run to
generate folders (and subfolders) for the modules in this course. 

     Our readings focused on introductory information about Python, like it being open source software and the various ways to work with Python (different graphic user interfaces or through command line). For our course we will be focusing on PythonWin (an editor for Windows) and the Python window in ArcGIS. Other readings focused on adopting a problem solving mindset through identifying important variables, determining objectives and goals based on those variables, and creating a list of tasks (implemented to meet goals/objectives).  
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