How useful is this if I want to begin programming?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the usefulness of various programming resources and languages for beginners. Participants explore different approaches to learning programming, including memorization, practical application, and the choice of programming languages.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the meaning of "memorizing" programming and seeks clarification on whether it refers to syntax or something else.
  • Another suggests Processing as a fun and accessible way to learn programming, highlighting its capabilities for visual arts and interaction.
  • Some participants express skepticism about using obsolete languages like Basic, while others acknowledge its potential for teaching fundamentals.
  • A participant argues that learning multiple languages is important to avoid being limited in problem-solving approaches.
  • There is a discussion about the role of quizzes and memorization in learning programming, with some advocating for practical programming experience as essential for true understanding.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the best programming languages for beginners and the effectiveness of memorization versus practical application. No consensus is reached on a single best approach or language.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various programming languages and resources, but there are no clear agreements on their effectiveness or suitability for beginners. The discussion reflects a range of experiences and perspectives on learning methods.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in starting programming, educators looking for resources, and those exploring different programming languages and learning methodologies.

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Maybe you should check it out for yourself:

 
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Welcome to PF. :smile:

SleipnirTheHorse said:
I have memorized programming with multiple apps,
Sorry, what does that mean? I'm not sure what "memorizing" has to do with the concept of programming. Do you mean memorizing the syntax of a particular language? Which language(s)? Or do you mean something else? Thanks.
 
If you want to have fun with programming check out the Processing.org site. Processing is java based but gives you full control of the screen for drawing and full access to the mouse and keyboard for interacting with your program.

With only a few lines of code you can do some amazing things.
 
I would stay away from obsolete Basic. I don't know what is best for beginners. Python is ok and popular.
 
Processing is best for beginners!

There, I said it. Now, go out and learn it.

Here's my Joy of Processing insight article:

https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/the-joy-of-processing/

www.processing.org

Welcome to Processing!​

Processing is a flexible software sketchbook and a language for learning how to code. Since 2001, Processing has promoted software literacy within the visual arts and visual literacy within technology. There are tens of thousands of students, artists, designers, researchers, and hobbyists who use Processing for learning and prototyping.
 
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jack action said:
Maybe you should check it out for yourself:


I actually played it as a child. So technically I have?
 
Most programs which teach Python or other such languages use quizzes and memorization. This has been my experience.
 
While Basic can teach you certain fundamentals of programming practice and style, I wouldn't stop at just learning one language. Why? because when you're a hammer, everything is a nail. If all you know is one language, you'll try to make that language fit every paradigm/problem. Also, memorization is not learning to program. Think of it like this memorizing a recipe isn't the same as learning to cook.

Here are my recommendations:

1. Basic - just to get fundamentals down.
2. C language - it's good to know fundamentals of pointers and memory management as well as implementing data structures.
3. C++ or Java - best for teaching Object Oriented Programming, wide use in industry.
4. Python - Widely used today in industry.

Best of luck,
bryantcl
 
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  • #10
SleipnirTheHorse said:
Most programs which teach Python or other such languages use quizzes and memorization.
Quizzes are OK when you're first learning the syntax of a programming language, and a certain amount of memorization is necessary, but to really learn to program, you need to write a few simple programs to see what the various programming elements do and how they work.
 
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  • #11
jack action, we must accept that the video of post #2, you are trying to be helpful and inspirational, but a few of us may recall the metaphoric description, "lipstick on a pig".
note: I am still trying to watching the video.
 

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