From: tho_mica_l <micathom@...>
Date: 2008-02-02T04:19:59+09:00
Subject: Re: Learn how to program

> I'm mystified at the notion that Java, C#, or VB.NET would be good as a
> teaching language.

Well, since Java is used at many schools/university for introductory
courses, there are some good text books around for beginners. The
good
books also cover oo design and data structures and the like.

> Use something that encourages curiosity,
> experimentation, and wonder -- not something that is bureaucratic and
> frustrating for a beginner.

Where is this article that was recently flying through the
blogosphere
about java being a bad choice as a first language? IIRC the main
argument was that its graphics libraries are too much fun. I
personally
actually think it's funny how opinions can differ. :-) You're right
of
course that it should be fun in order to keep up the interest in the
subject. BTW I think Squeak, which offers a nice interactive
environment, wasn't mentioned yet.