Learning to program is getting harder
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The fundamental problem is that the barrier between using a computer and programming a computer is getting higher.
In my day, we had to program uphill through snowdrifts. In both directions!
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The fundamental problem is that the barrier between using a computer and programming a computer is getting higher.
In my day, we had to program uphill through snowdrifts. In both directions!
Learning to program is not hard, it is expecting people to program in a fully defined environment with a graphical front end, libraries, etc. that makes it hard. Would any of us think that the vehicle we learn to drive in will be an 18-wheeler or a tank? While some may, that it not the case for most. You start smaller, with something you can manage and then build up. How about learning program with something simple? Learn the basics, then expand. Provide them with an environment where they actually have to type in the code, not drag objects onto a screen. I'd suggest the C64 Mini (whenever it comes out) because it will have a version of BASIC on it, but I'm afraid all people would use it for is a game machine. And then.. they'd post in QA, "Show me how to write the game..." but not post what they've tried.
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Learning to program is not hard, it is expecting people to program in a fully defined environment with a graphical front end, libraries, etc. that makes it hard. Would any of us think that the vehicle we learn to drive in will be an 18-wheeler or a tank? While some may, that it not the case for most. You start smaller, with something you can manage and then build up. How about learning program with something simple? Learn the basics, then expand. Provide them with an environment where they actually have to type in the code, not drag objects onto a screen. I'd suggest the C64 Mini (whenever it comes out) because it will have a version of BASIC on it, but I'm afraid all people would use it for is a game machine. And then.. they'd post in QA, "Show me how to write the game..." but not post what they've tried.
<I'd suggest the C64 Mini (whenever it comes out)> 29/03/2018 UK release date
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<I'd suggest the C64 Mini (whenever it comes out)> 29/03/2018 UK release date
Agreed... and thank you for the release date.. I've been watching for it. Started programming on a Commodore PET in high school; bought my own C-64 in college. Self-taught C on the C-64.
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Agreed... and thank you for the release date.. I've been watching for it. Started programming on a Commodore PET in high school; bought my own C-64 in college. Self-taught C on the C-64.
It has a non-functioning keyboard though, so you'll have to use a third party tool (like CBM prg Studio) and then 'upload' your program to it.
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It has a non-functioning keyboard though, so you'll have to use a third party tool (like CBM prg Studio) and then 'upload' your program to it.
Can an standard USB keyboard be used? That was my initial impression.
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Can an standard USB keyboard be used? That was my initial impression.
I'd like to say "let's hope so" but I'm not sure.