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I know HN is really, really focused on semantics. I know this. But seriously, every single time one of these articles pops up with the GP calling programming 'c
by sehr 13y ago
I know HN is really, really focused on semantics. I know this. But seriously, every single time one of these articles pops up with the GP calling programming 'cs', the majority of the discussion is focused on calling out how it's incorrect.
Now I may be wrong, but I know that I personally would much rather have been creating something with some basic syntax as opposed to learning theory while I was in grade school. Being able to see your seemingly magical incantations create something cool is going to be a lot more encouraging than studying discrete mathematics.
Theory is cool. Theory has its place, but before you even encounter the situations in which it's applicable, I'd say try making something first.
EDIT -- Especially when these kids are low income. Discrete mathematics to inner city kids is about as relatable as Biggie is to Wall Street bankers.
- frostmatthew 13y agoI agree it's probably better to teach children some basic syntax instead of discrete mathematics but I think part of webo's point was you can teach basic syntax without calling it "Computer Science"
- jamesbritt 13y agoEspecially when these kids are low income. Discrete mathematics to inner city kids is about as relatable as Biggie is to Wall Street bankers. Is this something recent? I went to grade school (long time ago) with low-income and inner-city kids and quite a few were intellectually curious and interested in abstract ideas.
- sehr 13y agoNo not at all! The poster I was replying to was suggesting using DM alone instead of basic scripting. They are already planning on having AP CS which is a much more in depth class for those interested later on.