A no-code / low-code desktop app for learning Python, algebra, machine learning, and scientific computing using Blockly + Jupyter notebooks — with zero setup.
PyCanvas Desktop is an offline-first learning environment designed for students, educators, and beginners who want to learn by doing without fighting installations, environments, or syntax barriers.
It combines:
• 🧩 Blockly for visual, beginner-friendly programming
• 📓 Jupyter Notebook for real Python and scientific workflows
• 🐍 IPython kernel for interactive execution
• 💻 Desktop-first experience (no browser, no cloud required)
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Students learning Python, algebra, or machine learning
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Educators teaching computational thinking or data science
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Beginners intimidated by Python setup and syntax
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Self-learners who want a smooth transition from blocks → code
If you’ve ever said “I just want students to focus on learning, not installing Python”, PyCanvas is for you.
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The problem
Learning Python and ML usually requires:
- Installing Python
- Managing virtual environments
- Installing packages
- Understanding syntax before concepts
This friction stops many learners before they even start.
The solution
PyCanvas removes that friction:
- ✅ No Python installation required
- ✅ Runs locally and offline
- ✅ Visual blocks generate real Python code
- ✅ Seamless transition to Jupyter notebooks
- ✅ Designed for education, not production complexity
Learners can start visually, then gradually take control of real code.
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Start with Blockly
Learn logic, math, and ML concepts visually
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See real Python code
Blocks translate directly into readable Python
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Switch to Jupyter notebooks
Experiment, visualize, and extend using standard notebooks
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Grow without rewrites
What students learn here transfers directly to real Python workflows
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- 🧩 Blockly-based visual programming
- 📓 Native Jupyter Notebook support
- 🧪 Interactive IPython execution
- 📊 Scientific computing & visualization
- 🤖 Introductory machine learning workflows
- 🧮 Algebra and math exploration
- 📝 Execute Python code directly from Markdown files
- 💾 Fully local & offline
- 🖥️ Cross-platform desktop app (DMG provided)
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macOS
- Download the latest DMG from Releases
- Open the DMG and drag PyCanvas Desktop into Applications
- Launch and start learning — no setup required
👉 Release: https://github.com/pycanvas/pycanvas-desktop/releases
Windows
- Download the latest PyCanvasInstaller.exe from Releases
- Open the PyCanvasInstaller.exe and follow the installation wizard
- Launch PyCanvas Desktop and start learning — no setup required
👉 Release: https://github.com/pycanvas/pycanvas-desktop/releases
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PyCanvas is designed with classrooms in mind:
• No environment setup for students
• Works offline (ideal for labs & restricted networks)
• Supports gradual transition from blocks to real code
• Uses industry-standard Jupyter notebooks
Classroom use ideas
• Intro to Python programming
• Algebra visualization
• Machine learning concept demos
• Scientific computing basics
Lesson plans and sample notebooks are welcome contributions!
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We welcome contributions of all kinds:
• 🐞 Bug reports
• 📚 Documentation improvements
• 🧪 Example notebooks
• 🧠 Educational content & lesson ideas
• 🎨 UI / UX suggestions
If you’re new to open source, look for issues labeled good first issue.
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• More algebra & math visualizations
• Expanded ML playgrounds
• Curriculum-ready lesson packs
• Windows & Linux installers
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This project is early and feedback-driven.
• Open an Issue for bugs or ideas
• Start a Discussion for teaching workflows
• Educators: tell us how you’d use this in class
Your feedback directly shapes the roadmap.
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Open source. See LICENSE for details.
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PyCanvas is built on a simple belief:
Learning should focus on ideas, not installation or program grammar errors.
If this resonates with you, you’re in the right place.