[svlug] Re: using linux in schools

[William R Ward]

Erik Fears writes:
>> http://www.lysator.liu.se/c/bwk-on-pascal.html
>> 
>> The "best teaching language" argument seems to be mainly focused
>> on Python, Java, and Scheme.
>
>I don't remember the name of it, but there is a java based learning 
>software where kids can write programs for their robots and then the 
>robots battle in an arena of some sort. I think this has been done 
>with a few other languages too. This might be the best way to get kids 
>into writing algorithms.

LEGO Mindstorms seems like a better choice to me...

LEGO produces a silly drag'n'drop programming tool that is OK for kids
but less ideal for people who want to learn actual programming.  But
you can use a language called NQC (Not Quite C) to produce code for
the standard firmware.

Or you can install alternate firmware called BrickOS (formerly LegOS)
and write software in C for it.  There's also something called Lejos
that lets you use Java.  ObLinux: you can use BrickOS with Linux.  I'm
not sure if you can do that with NQC.  I know you can't with the LEGO
software, which is only for Windows (or MacOS?).

Interestingly, LEGO doesn't mind that people have reverse-engineered
Mindstorms.  They objected to the name LegOS for obvious reasons, but
other than that they have been very supportive of hackers' attempts to
stretch the abilities of the Mindstorms computer (called the RCX).
They think it's no different from taking LEGO bricks and building
something other than what was pictured on the box... it's all about
creativity.

Now that's about all I know about Mindstorms, so I can't answer many
questions about it.  My primary interest is in more traditional
(plastic-based) LEGO construction.

--Bill.

-- 
William R Ward            bill at wards.net          http://www.wards.net/~bill/
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"A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by
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