Programming Languages

Programming Languages

Scratch

My initial thoughts about the Scratch application were mixed! I initially felt that the application wasn’t sufficient for teaching potential Programmers about how programming works. I viewed the application as a mere tool for adolescents to use for basic programming and entertainment! However, after using the Scratch application, I understand its purpose, and see how it establishes the basic principles of programming and application development!

When I initially started utilizing the Scratch development environment, I was confused on how to navigate the application, and on how to implement its features. Additionally, the tutorial wasn’t very helpful in explaining how to use and navigate the tool. However, after utilizing the tool, and trial and error; I was able to successfully create quite a few functional applications. I was able to overcome my difficulties with using and understanding the Scratch development environment by regularly using the tool, and trial and error. Experience is the best teacher, so I had to “dive” into the tool, and learn on the fly!

Some of insights that I learned about programming from using the Scratch tool are: [i] how to utilize and navigate Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), [ii] logic when programming, and [iii] core principles of Object Oriented Programming (OOP). The Scratch tool is an effective framework to help beginner programmers learn the basics and core principles & concepts of programming.

Programmer Languages Type

My experience programming in the Scratch tool was an enjoyable one. But, the Scratch development tool is vastly different than other programming languages and Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), such as Microsoft Visual Studio, or Java Software Development Kit (JSDK). Programming languages such as, Java, C# (pronounced C Sharpe), and Python, amongst others; are classified as high level programming languages. 

The Scratch tool is classified as a visual programming language. There are many types of programming languages used for creating programs and apps; including: [i] machine language, [ii] assembly language, and [iii] high-level languages. Machine language, also known as machine code, is the lowest-level programming language and consists of binary instructions that a computer’s central processing unit (CPU) can execute directly. Assembly language is a low-level programming language that provides a symbolic representation of a computer’s machine code. It’s associated with the architecture of the specific computer hardware, meaning each type of processor has its own unique assembly language.

A high-level programming language is defined as a programming language that provides a strong abstraction from the details of the computer's hardware. Basically, the programming language is independent of the hardware that it runs on. According to High-Level Language (HLL), “A high-level language (HLL) is a type of programming language designed to simplify computer programming and make it more accessible to humans.”, (Gunnell, 2024). In summary, a high-level programming language is designed to be easily read and written by potential programmers. Essentially, removing the complexities of the underlying hardware, thus allowing programmers/developers to focus more on the logic, functionality, and aesthetics of their programs and apps. 

So, fundamentally, the Scratch tool is classified as a visual programming language. It’s primarily designed for beginner programmers to learn basic programming principles & concepts without needing the skills to write text-based code. It’s a block-based tool to simplify the learning process for beginners, making it accessible, engaging, and fun to use while teaching core programming principles & concepts.

While I’m fond of several programming languages, such as, Java, Visual Basics (Visual Basic. Net), and C# (C#.Net); just to name a few. I found Visual Basics (Visual Basic. Net) the easiest to use and understand. It could possibly be due to its straight-forward, and procedural concept! But, nonetheless, I found that programming language to be the easiest to navigate and execute. Additionally, the Microsoft Visual Studio (in which Visual Basics is housed) Integrated Development Environment (IDE) has a simple drag & drop feature that makes creating Graphical User Interfaces (GUI, pronounced Gooey) much easier!

 

Effective Programming Language

The three types of languages: [i] machine language, [ii] assembly language, and [iii] high-level languages, are all more effective for particular purposes. For example, machine language is typically used only when maximum performance and direct hardware control are absolutely necessary. On the other hand, assembly language is closely related to machine code, and is typically used for writing code intended for device drivers, firmware, and system boot loaders. Additionally, assembly language can be used for programs that require critical performance optimizations. Lastly, we have high-level languages, which are most effective for developing complex, scalable, and maintainable programs. Today’s companies and enterprises often utilize high-level languages when seeking software solutions to solve their business needs!

While there are hundreds, or even thousands of programming languages available in the world today, some are more popular than others. For instance, some of the most commonly used programming languages today are, C#, C++, and Python; just to name a few. However, of all the popular programming languages in the world today, the most popular and commonly used programming language in the world today is, JavaScript, not to be mistaken with Java! According to a 2023, worldwide study conducted by Statista, 63.61% of Developers reported utilizing JavaScript to create/build programs/applications/apps. So, as of May 18, 2024, JavaScript is the proverbial “champion” of programming languages; or at the least, the “go-to” language!

Scratch Link: https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1021679326/