thingoid

Part Two: Things 6 -8

In part two we continue to look at what programming languages have in common. (more…)

Five languages were used to demonstrate the eight things programming languages do - Java, Perl, Python, REBOL, and Scheme. (more…)

Part One: Things 1 - 5

When learning computer programming it can be difficult to separate general programming principles from the specific details of one particular language. In some languages the underlying general principles of programming may remain obscured by the sheer volume of information needed just to make a program work. General principles may not emerge until the new programmer has learned two or three other languages.

This article illustrates eight basic programming concepts with examples in five programming languages - Java, Perl, Python, REBOL, and Scheme - which will allow the reader to make comparisons and generalisations. Part one addresses the first five ideas: output, variables, expressions, input, and selection. Part two covers lists, subroutines, and repetition. (more…)

Programming with Karel J Robot - Part 4 of 4

In the previous episodes we made increasingly sophisticated square-making programs. In this final episode we will leave boring squares behind and make a star shape. (more…)

Programming with Karel J Robot - Part 3 of 4

Welcome to part three of Programming with Karel. In this episode we are going to start controlling more than one robot and have a look at how robot names work. But first I’ll make a comment. (more…)

Teaching a young robot new tricks

Programming with Karel J Robot - Part 2 of 4

In the previous article, I left readers with the task of modifying the example program to make the robot close the L-shape into a square, as shown here:

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Programming with Karel J Robot - Part 1 of 4

Computer programming is an absorbing and challenging hobby and a valuable occupational skill. It helps develop many useful intellectual abilities, including analytical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. But most importantly, computer programming is fun.

Welcome to the first in a series of articles intended for people with a moderate level of computer experience but little or no knowledge of programming. Let’s say you know what files and folders are, you can use a word processor, you don’t need detailed instructions on how to install software, and if I say “Run Program X” you’ve got a pretty good idea where Program X is and how to get it going. That’s all you need - no expertise required. (more…)