Initialize py-libp2p Universal Connectivity Workshop

[paschal533]

Description

This pull request initializes the workshop for teaching Python programmers how to build a universal connectivity application using py-libp2p. It implements Step 1 (setting up the workshop structure and dependencies) and Step 2 (creating the first foundation lessons). The workshop is designed to be interactive, engaging, and suitable for a classroom setting, with a structure that complies with the WORKSHOP_AUTHORING.md guidelines.

Changes Introduced

Step 1: Workshop Structure and Dependencies

• Created the uc-workshop/py/ directory structure to house the workshop content.
• Added deps.py to check for required Python dependencies (e.g., Python 3.8+, py-libp2p, and other necessary libraries).
• Added setup.md with clear instructions for setting up the Python environment and creating a new project for the workshop.
• Established common utilities and templates to support lesson development and ensure consistency across the workshop.

Step 2: Foundation Lessons (1)

• Lesson 1: Identity and Basic Host
  • Objective: Teach participants how to create a libp2p host with a cryptographic identity.
  • Content: Introduces the concept of a libp2p host, peer IDs, and key pair generation using py-libp2p.
  • Files:
    • lesson.md: Detailed explanation of libp2p identity concepts with practical exercises.
    • lesson.yaml: Metadata for the lesson (title, description, status).
    • check.py: Script to validate the participant's implementation of a basic host.
    • app/Dockerfile: Docker configuration for running the lesson code.
    • docker-compose.yaml: Configuration for containerized execution and output logging.
    • stdout.log: Placeholder for capturing lesson output.
  • Exercises: Participants create a basic libp2p host and generate a peer ID.
  • Hint Blocks: Tips for handling key pair generation and debugging common errors.

Key Features

• The workshop structure follows the format specified in WORKSHOP_AUTHORING.md.
• Lessons are designed to build upon each other, starting with fundamental concepts (identity, transports, connections) to prepare participants for more advanced topics.
• Each lesson includes clear objectives, concise explanations, and interactive exercises to reinforce learning.
• Docker configurations ensure consistent execution environments for participants.
• Check scripts (check.py) provide automated validation of participant solutions.
• Hint blocks are included to assist with common pitfalls and enhance the learning experience.

Testing

• Verified that deps.py correctly identifies required dependencies.
• Tested lesson exercises in a local Python environment with py-libp2p installed.
• Validated Docker configurations for each lesson to ensure proper containerized execution.
• Ensured that check.py scripts accurately validate participant solutions.

Additional Notes

• The py-libp2p library is experimental and under active development. This workshop accounts for its current state and focuses on stable features.
• The workshop is designed for a classroom setting with an instructor, including checkpoint lessons for live progress tracking and prize distribution.
• Feedback is welcome on the lesson structure, content clarity, or additional features to enhance the learning experience.

Checklist

• Created uc-workshop/py/ directory structure.
• Implemented deps.py for dependency checking.
• Added setup.md with setup instructions.
• Created Lesson 1 (Identity and Basic Host) with all required files.
• Tested all lessons in a classroom-like environment (pending classroom testing).
• Ensured compliance with WORKSHOP_AUTHORING.md guidelines.