From: dave.burt@...
Date: 2005-10-11T20:06:53+09:00
Subject: Re: my mother wants to code?

>  my 50 year old mother wants to learn to code.

Great!

I believe Ruby is a good first language.

I'd certainly recommend it above C. A functional programming language
(Haskell) would perhaps be understood by someone well-versed in
mathematics better than you or I. Maybe Python or Java otherwise, but
here you are on ruby-talk, and if you're a Rubyist, Ruby is better for
your mum.

If Java is better, it is because it is designed to be idiot-proof.
That's also why it's not as good.

irb is the #1 equipment for learning Ruby.

Chris Pine's tutorial is excellent, and he's looking for reviewers like
your mother for the book based upon it (see an earlier thread on this
list). I recommend this as the best way in - it even encourages you to
play with your new Ruby skills in irb.

Why's (Poignant) Guide to Ruby is fun, but takes a certain sense of
humour and a bunch of time.

Then there's the Pickaxe, which you've probably seen. It's too heavy
for a non-programmer, but a good reference once you're underway.

Now you just need a small project or two that she can work towards. I
like to implement Blackjack in a new language I learn, but that's just
me.

Cheers,
Dave