Programming Languages

Using Scratch to build a program can be an educational experience and an introduction to understanding how programming languages work. For my project, Learn the Alphabet, I used Scratch’s block-based visual interface to create an experience that cycled through each letter of the alphabet. I programmed a start button, next and previous buttons, and a reset button to use at any time. At the top of the program, you can also see the corresponding number in the order of the alphabet. This environment allowed me to focus on logic and design without worrying about syntax errors. However, one challenge I encountered was locating specific blocks of code, where traditional languages allow for typing. A study by Marimuthu and Govender (2018) revealed that while younger students found Scratch both accessible and beneficial for learning programming basics, older students felt it lacked the depth required for transitioning to more advanced languages like Java.

Although this exercise did not provide me with significant insights, given some prior coding experience, I do see this program being beneficial to those who have absolutely zero experience. Scratch can provide the user with an understanding of variables, conditions, and loops with an easy visual and simplistic manner. Moreso, it showcases the importance of planning and logical design when developing a program.

My experience utilizing Scratch versus other programs, as listed in Section 10.1 of the course textbook, mostly encompasses the differences in complexity. While Scratch focuses on being simplistic and visual block-based code. Scratch can be compared mostly to interpreted languages like Python. Like Python, Scratch executes code immediately from designed code blocks without requiring compilation. In addition, Scratch encompasses a large range of prebuilt functions, much like Python libraries, that provide the user with ease of use. However, unlike Python, the visual block-based design can be cumbersome when searching for specific functionality. I also found Scratch’s use of message broadcasting to simulate asynchronous behavior to be more of a workaround than a robust feature.

In contrast, compiled languages such as C++ require source code to be translated into machine code before execution. Assembly language demands an in-depth understanding of computer architecture and is rarely used outside of embedded systems and performance-critical applications. Query languages such as SQL are purpose-built for database management.

I think using interpreted languages, like Python, is easiest to use due to the readability of syntax and active error handling, especially in programs like Visual Studio Code. The main challenge lies in remembering library-specific functions, which can vary significantly from compiled languages.

Each type of programming language has its own benefits. Compiled languages are ideal for raw performance and system hardware access, such as operating systems. According to Ponggawa et al. (2024), C++ excels in performance critical applications due to its proximity to machine level operations. Interpreted languages find their success in smaller applications such as web development and automation where development speed is prioritized. Assembly language is most effective in scenarios when needed direct access to hardware, such as writing firmware or drivers. Lastly, query languages, like SQL, are useful in just about any project that requires data storage, retrieval, and manipulation, outperforming many other formats such as JSON or XML. Overall, Scratch provides new programmers with an excellent starting point for the application building process, from planning to implementation. Limited in complexity, it still introduces the essential logic to any application while utilizing a visual and user-friendly format.

My Scratch Project, Learn the Alphabet

https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1182604258