Data Analysis and Computational Thinking

Computational thinking with algorithms, Python, Excel, data analysis, testing, and reliable programs

A beginner course in computational thinking, Python programming, Excel data analysis, testing, and reliable problem solving.
Author

Breno Alves Beirigo

Beginner course | 3 EC | 7 modules

Learn to turn an unclear problem into a computational solution that another person can inspect, test, and improve.

I'm enrolled: start here 2026–2027 syllabus

Beginner level No programming prerequisite

Python The reference programming language

Excel Tabular analysis, checking, and communication

7 modules One cumulative learning path

What this course covers

DACT combines computational thinking, Excel data analysis, and Python programming. You will define problems, design algorithms, work with tabular data, write and test programs, and explain the assumptions and limits of your results.

The course moves from problem formulation and algorithm design through Excel and Python to records, files, simulation, testing, and reliable programs. The underlying ideas transfer to other domains, languages, and computational tools.

Modules

Module 1

Computational thinking and algorithm design

Formulate computational problems and design, trace, test, and improve algorithms before programming.

Module 2

Data analysis with Excel

Structure, calculate with, refresh, summarize, and communicate changing tabular data.

Module 3

Programming foundations

Translate algorithms into Python programs, build small reusable functions, and explain their values, calculations, and changing state.

Module 4

Decisions and debugging

Express rules as conditional logic, and locate and correct defects in a program.

Module 5

Lists and loops

Build a reproducible minimum viable simulation and inspect its results in Excel.

Module 6

Records and files

Use collections and read, write, and manage files.

Module 7

Building reliable programs

Choose data structures, organize a program, recreate its environment, test its behavior, and manage its changes.

Where to go next

University of Twente students can find Canvas, the timetable, and the materials released for the current week in the enrolled-student guide.

For course outcomes, assessment, workload, and policies, consult the 2026–2027 syllabus. Independent learners can follow the course learning guide.