LOGO-L> APL better than LOGO

[Ehud Lamm <mslamm@mscc.huji.ac.il>]

This post if for the comp.lang.logo crowd.

Since there are long discussions here about "the best language" for
children, and LOGO alternatives in general, I find it worth while to
suggest that those interested got o comp.lang.apl and look at the therwad
about APL and J as "kid languages".

For those unfamiliar with APL and J, let me just add a few words. APL is a
one of the classic computer languages. It was designed by Ken Iverson, and
is centered arround dynamic arrays which have a shapes (like 2*2*2) that
can be dynamically reshaped (let's say to 2*4). The language has many
operators, which apply operations to whole arrays (you can sum the array
elements using a single expression etc.). The APL mavens prefer doing this
kind of to explicit looping (like "repeat" or recursion).
APL uses a unique charcter set, which APL bashers like to call
hiroglyphics. J is a newer language based on the same concepts. One of its
strong points is using normal ASCII.

APL and J tend to look "strange" to those educated on conventional,
imperative languages. But maybe this style of thought can appeal to kids.
I am not sure, but it seems like a long shot.

This is far from a complete description of APL/J and my views . Don't
flame me!

Ehud Lamm     mslamm@pluto.mscc.huji.ac.il


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