Executive Development Programme in Building RESTful APIs with Flask and Python

This course is designed for mid-to-senior level executives and technical leaders seeking to enhance their understanding of building RESTful APIs using Flask and Python. Participants will gain hands-on experience in API design principles, Flask framework, and Python programming, enabling them to lead or collaborate effectively on backend development projects.

By the end of the program, attendees will be proficient in creating scalable and maintainable RESTful APIs, integrating third-party services, and implementing security best practices. They will also be equipped to make informed decisions on technology stack choices and lead teams through the development lifecycle, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

1. 1. Introduction to RESTful APIs: Learners will understand the basic principles of RESTful web services and how they are designed to expose application functionality over a network. They will gain foundational knowledge of REST architecture and its key components, preparing them for more advanced topics.
2. 2. Setting Up Flask Environment: This module will guide learners through setting up a Flask environment for building web applications. They will learn about virtual environments, Flask installation, and basic configuration, laying the groundwork for API development.
3. 3. Flask Basics and Routing: Learners will explore the core concepts of Flask, including setting up routes, handling HTTP methods, and creating simple web applications. They will gain practical skills in routing and basic web application development using Flask.
4. 4. Data Models and SQLAlchemy: This module will focus on building data models using SQLAlchemy, a popular SQL toolkit and ORM for Python. Learners will understand how to design database schemas and interact with databases using Python, essential for building robust RESTful APIs.
5. 5. Authentication and Authorization: In this module, learners will learn about implementing user authentication and authorization in Flask applications. They will study various authentication techniques and learn to secure APIs using JWT (JSON Web Tokens) and OAuth.
6. 6. Handling Forms and Data Validation: Learners will delve into form handling and data validation using Flask-WTF, a Flask extension for processing web forms. They will gain skills in validating user input and handling form submissions securely.
7. 7. Advanced Flask Features: This module will cover advanced topics in Flask, such as blueprints, error handling, and middleware. It will also introduce learners to testing Flask applications, enhancing their ability to develop and maintain complex web applications.
8. 8. Building RESTful APIs: Learners will learn how to design and implement RESTful APIs using Flask. They will understand best practices for API design, including resource identification, payload formats, and API documentation.
9. 9. Deploying Flask Applications: This module will guide learners through deploying Flask applications to production environments. They will learn about different deployment strategies, including using Docker and cloud services like AWS or Heroku.
10. 10. Security Best Practices for APIs: In the final module, learners will explore security best practices for APIs, including securing data in transit and at rest, protecting against common web vulnerabilities, and implementing secure API design principles.