Programming Languages

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of programming languages and their necessity. Also a look at the three main programming languages for the BBC micro:bit: JavaScript Blocks, JavaScript, and MicroPython. The visual nature of JavaScript blocks makes it an ideal first programming language for younger coders, while the way blocks click together like jigsaw pieces means it's also a great way to learn fundamental programming concepts. Python is a hugely popular programming language for both education and professional development. Code written in Python can be more readable to the inexperienced than the same code written in JavaScript. Technically, the Python available for the BBC micro:bit is variant Python designed specifically for use with microcontrollers and more properly called MicroPython. JavaScript is flexible, lightweight, and cross-platform. The latter means it can run on a wide variety of computers, from powerful servers all the way down to the BBC micro:bit.

Cite this paper

@misc{anon2017programming,
  title = {{Programming Languages}},
  pages = {39--49},
  year = {2017},
  doi = {10.1002/9781119413752.ch4}
}

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