Define programming language terms independently of computer terminology to make concepts more accessible to students.

  • Definitions that avoid computer terminology eliminate unnecessary and confusing details, making it easier for students to understand.
  • For example, consider the differences below when defining what a variable is:
    • A computer-centric definition: "A variable is a name for a memory location used to hold a value of some particular data type."
    • A computer-independent definition: "A variable is a designation given to a single value."

More about this tip

External Source
"A principled approach to teaching OO first" by David Gries under "2. Pedagogical Principles."