"Scratch" Introduction to Programming Languages

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Link to Scratch Project: https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/790263713

Building a program using the Scratch website was an interesting experience. At first the website was awkward to use, and several attempts were made to make the functions of the programming complete the task that was trying to be sent to the output in video and sound format. The finished product took many times of re-watching the video that was created to ensure that the final output was what was intended. While starting the project was frustrating, the blocks became easier to use. Keeping in mind that each part of the program, including the two different characters and even the backdrops, had to be “told” what to do was key in successfully completing this project.

            Trial and error were the best tools of success for finishing this assignment. Repeatedly watching the video and correcting each mistake at a time was the best method for reaching a finished product. Like trial and error or repeatedly trying different methods for solving problems, the text Computer Technology for All uses different activities or trial and error or entering different information into various programming blocks to achieve the correct answer. Machine language programming consists of ones and zeros. Assembly language is used to convert the machine language into understandable language for people to use. High level languages like Python and Fortran are used for better productivity and are used in programming today (Vahid & Lysecky Section 2.8, 2.9, 2.10, & 2.11). Different programming languages often have different strengths and weaknesses.

            Python was the easiest programming language to understand out of the programming languages presented in the text. Oddy makes a great point in C++ vs Python that “Python is one of the most versatile programming languages that is also relatively easy to learn” (2023). Python is often easier to understand as a language for programmers. TIOBE has also ranked Python as the number one preferred programming language on the TIOBE Index for 2023.

            Basic programming skills used in machine language or assembly language would be great for basic computations like addition and subtraction. For example, the text presents equations for computing Celsius to Fahrenheit and high-level language is necessary to compute higher level equations.   However, today most languages used on modern computers would require high language programming. Python and C++ seem to be the most popular choices for programming after researching various programming languages. Oddy notes that while Python is the easiest to use, it runs code line by line, often making it slower (2023). C++ is often preferred depending on the programming and can be used on different OS making it a popular choice depending on the work that is being completed. 

Oddy, C. (2023). C++ vs Python. KO2 Embedded Recruitment Solutions. Retrieved from                                     https://www.ko2.co.uk/c-plus-plus-vs-python/

TIOBE. (January 2023). TIOBE Index for January 2023. TIOBE The Software Company.                                     Retrieved from https://www.tiobe.com/tiobe-index/

Vahid, F., & Lysecky, S. (2019). Computing Technology for All. ZyBooks.


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