Re: LOGO-L> Numbers or Words?

[mikedoyle@cix.compulink.co.uk (Mike Doyle)]

In-Reply-To: <6651AC287A@ort.spb.ru>
Hi Olga,

Saw the discussion on keeping data types distinct.

I find comparison of Logo with other computer languages somewhat 
perplexing.

As a teacher I use pencil and paper media which mix a great variety of 
'data types' before children's eyes. One of the  things they learn is the 
differentiation of these types, as a mental process. Logo models human 
though processes in this respect. Logo does not demand of young children 
an explicit understanding of data types before they write procedures. Logo 
itself differentiates where necessary.

This leads to some interesting artefacts - a very large number in 
MicroWorlds is treated as a word.

Which leads me to my view of the role of Logo. I do not see Logo as a 
precursor to programming in other languages. For me, the computer is a new 
instrument of representation capable of representing actions. This is the 
greatest advance in representational capability since writing began. Logo, 
a computer language designed for education, enables children to work with 
this new capability directly. When they type "FORWARD 50" the turtle 
moves, hence medium represents fully the meaning of FORWARD. This not 
possible with pencil and paper. 

I look to Logo being developed to reflect more effectively the true 
capabilities of the PC. At present it is stuck in an intermediate phase.



Micheal O Duill
EuroLogo Scientific Committee Chairman

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