Pamela Fox has launched ProficientPython.com, a free interactive Python course that takes a functions-first approach from the beginning rather than teaching through side effects. The course covers standard introductory topics like variables, functions, loops, and OOP, but distinguishes itself by requiring no Python setup since all exercises run in the browser using Pyodide-powered widgets. Projects are completed via Google CoLab notebooks. The functions-based methodology, inspired by UC Berkeley's CS61A curriculum, helps students learn abstraction early but may be challenging for complete beginners. The course includes custom web components built with Lit framework and uses localStorage for progress tracking without requiring user accounts.
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