Charlotte builds her future in technology with Level 3 AI Programming

After already completing our Level 3 Networking and Cybersecurity course, Sheffield learner Charlotte decided to take her technology skills further by enrolling on our Level 3 AI Programming with Python course.

Developing skills in Python programming

A major part of Charlotte’s Level 3 AI Programming course was developing her programming skills, particularly in Python.

She told us how she completed various practical programming tasks, giving her the opportunity to write and test her own code.

“During the course, I completed a range of different projects and tasks based around Python programming and AI.

"I completed Python programming tasks where I wrote and worked with code, including programming concepts, functions, classes, object-oriented programming and command line arguments.”

Learning new technology and AI tools

Throughout the course, Charlotte was introduced to a range of tools, programmes and technologies used in programming and artificial intelligence.

She developed practical experience with GitHub, learning how developers create repositories, manage code, track changes and organise different versions of their work.

She also explored Python libraries, datasets and machine learning concepts, before putting her learning into practice using PyTorch.

This included working with the CIFAR-10 dataset, data transformations and neural network models, giving her a practical introduction to how AI and machine learning technologies are developed and used.

“I found the GitHub work interesting, because it showed me how programmers can save their work, make changes and keep track of different versions."

Understanding how AI works behind the scenes

The course wasn't just about writing code. Charlotte also studied the theory and mathematics behind artificial intelligence and deep learning.

Her studies included neural networks, calculus, derivatives, gradient descent and linear algebra.

“The deep learning unit was more challenging, but I enjoyed learning about things like neural networks, gradient descent and PyTorch because it gave me a better understanding of how AI works behind the scenes.

“I completed written and practical work on deep learning topics, and created guides and provided evidence of my work through screenshots and annotations.”

“Overall, the projects and tasks gave me experience of both the theory and practical side of programming and AI, and helped me develop my confidence in using Python.”

A rewarding and enjoyable experience

Charlotte summarised her own learning experience as challenging, but ultimately rewarding.

She told us what she found most enjoyable and interesting about the course.

“The thing I enjoyed most about the course was learning Python programming. I liked being able to write code myself and then see it actually work, as it made the learning more interesting and rewarding.

“It was especially satisfying when I struggled with something at first, but then understood it after practising and getting support.”

“I also enjoyed learning about how Python can be used for artificial intelligence and machine learning."

Advice for future learners

Charlotte believes that a lack of programming experience shouldn't stop someone from applying for the course. She also recommends taking time to work through difficult topics and asking for support when necessary.

“My advice to someone applying for this course would be to give it a go even if you don't have much programming experience. You don't need to know everything before starting, as you learn the different skills throughout the course.

“Some of the topics can be quite difficult, especially the more advanced AI, deep learning and mathematical parts, but they become easier when you break them down and practice them.

“Most importantly, I would say don't give up if you get stuck. There were times when I found parts of the course difficult, but getting support and continuing to work through it helped me understand things better.”

A clearer career direction

Charlotte told us that she has a much clearer idea of where she wants her technology career to go after completing the course.

She now has practical experience across Python, GitHub, Python libraries and deep learning, as well as a better understanding of how different areas of AI work together.

But more importantly, Charlotte has a greater confidence in her ability to progress towards a career in technology.

“I feel more confident about progressing in my career after completing this course. I had less experience with AI programming before, but I now have a much better understanding of Python and how it can be used in AI and machine learning.

“I know I still have more to learn and more experience to gain before I'm fully prepared, but I feel that this course has given me a strong starting point.

“Overall, I feel more confident about my future career because I now have a better foundation of knowledge, practical experience and a clearer idea of the areas of technology I would like to continue working towards.”

Continuing her technology journey

Charlotte’s next goal is to continue her learning with by completing our Level 3 Software Developer course, further developing the programming skills she has gained through her AI Programming studies.

Her journey demonstrates how continuing to learn, practising new skills and persevering through challenging topics can help build confidence and create new opportunities for a future career in technology.

Well done, Charlotte, and best of luck with your next step into software development!

Inspired by Charlotte’s story?

Our Level 3 AI Programming with Python course can help you build practical programming skills and explore the world of artificial intelligence and machine learning, even if you’re starting with limited programming experience.

Develop your knowledge of Python, AI, machine learning, GitHub and PyTorch, gain practical experience and take the next step towards a career in technology.

Ready to get started?

Visit our AI Programming with Python course in more detail to start your learning journey today.

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Building a future in technology with AI Programming: Charlotte's story