TechSmart launches supplemental in-platform learning materials to prepare students for the PCEP Certification Exam
TechSmart is excited to announce the release of a collection of in-platform learning resources that significantly increase the alignment of the CS201: Coding in Python 1 and CS202: Coding in Python 2 courses with content assessed by the Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer Certification (PCEP).
This PCEP Prep content is intended to be taken alongside the current CS200 Python pathway. These new supplemental activities focus on introducing new topics that are not found in the CS200 course progression as well as reviewing key topics focused on in the PCEP.
Using the Prep Course
Each of our PCEP Prep Course lessons can be completed in one of two ways. Students may complete the lesson on their own, by utilizing in-house produced videos, worksheets, and code files provided with the activity. Alternatively, teachers can use slides and slide notes that mirror CS200 instruction to lead their class through the covered topics. Regardless of the approach, students can utilize practice assessments throughout the course to check their understanding of the different topics present on the PCEP exam.
For information on how to access these new learning resources, see the "TechSmart's PCEP Prep Course" article.
Ordering PCEP/PCAP Test Vouchers
The Python Institute has kindly offered bulk discount packages for TechSmart's partner districts. Along with acquiring the exam + retake vouchers for your students, we highly recommend including the practice tests for your students to experience what the exams may consist of. With the practice test voucher, variations of the practice test can essentially be taken up to 15 times with reviews of each attempt. This will be valuable preparation for students before moving on to the actual exam. To inquire about discounts for exam and practice test vouchers, you can email Roobed Trejo at roobed.trejo@openedg.org or support@openedg.org. Make sure to mention that you use TechSmart's curriculum in your inquiry.
The general test voucher ordering sites can be found here:
- Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer Certification (PCEP)
- Certified Associate Python Programming (PCAP)
FAQs
Why should students take the PCEP?
Coding certifications are one way to signal to hiring managers that candidates have a deep understanding of a programming language. When combined with a robust coding portfolio, coding certifications such as the PCEP can help students with little or no professional experience land their first coding internships or entry-level jobs. The PCEP, in particular, is recognized across industry as leading a Python certification.
Do my students need these Test Prep materials in order to pass the PCEP?
The CS201 and CS202 courses were designed with PCEP alignment in mind, so there is already a strong overlap between what is present in the TechSmart curriculum and what is assessed by the PCEP. However, there are a small number of topics that are very specific to the Python language itself that are not included in TechSmart's core curriculum. It is certainly possible that a student could achieve the PCEP's 70% passing score without prior knowledge of these additional topics, but we believe students would strongly benefit from at least a quick primer on the advanced topics presented in these materials.
What technical content is covered in the TechSmart PCEP Test Prep course?
Please refer to the PCEP: Certification Prep Material syllabus for a detailed list of standards and topics covered by the PCEP Test Prep materials.
How will I know if my students are ready to take PCEP exam?
We believe students will be best prepared to succeed on the PCEP after the completion of CS201 and CS202 courses as well completion of the TechSmart PCEP Test Prep course, culminating in a practice exam that mirrors the real PCEP exam. Based on how they perform they can revisit on of the topics they need more practice on. If your students want additional practice, you can direct them to the Python Institute's free practice test as part of their official study course. This will further help a student determine if they are ready to take the PCEP Certification Exam.