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Wow, hadn't thought of Javascript (thought immediately of Python). Javascript is a solid suggestion. It gives you immediate gratification, definite marketabil

Wow, hadn't thought of Javascript (thought immediately of Python). Javascript is a solid suggestion. It gives you immediate gratification, definite marketability and puts the learner in front of a number of juggernauts (RIAs, mobile, all web). But it's kinda whacky as a language, so might lead the learner down a confusing path (if they want to learn any other languages later). Also, the learner's going to get wrapped up in crazy browser DOM nonsense.

kls 16y ago
But it's kinda whacky as a language, so might lead the learner down a confusing path That is why I focused so much on what the parent wanted to do. If it is fastest ROI and market place skills, it's JavaScript. If it is to learn the art, then Python or Ruby or the laundry list of others will be a better choice. Then again, web apps are probably not the best place to learn the pure art of code, which is why I suggested embedded, if it is just to satisfy intellectual curiosity.