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A comment on Python is now the most popular introductory language at top U.S. universities.

Re:Python is now the most popular introductory language at t... by drakaal on Monday July 07, 2014 @05:58PM (#8001760)
While I love python, I feel like Java has more application for beginners. While I am a backend guy, Java is better right now for split front end backend sorts as you can build a client Nd server for an Android app in Java. This lets you learn front and backend without having to know two languages.

I say this knowing I hate a lot about Java, but thinking about how I would teach concepts and techniques while making a student employable and fostering the ability to experiment on their own.

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Re:Python is now the most popular introductory language at t... by mikelat on Monday July 07, 2014 @06:12PM (#8001860)
I think the idea that the simplicity, lax compiler and readability of python will serve as a easier introduction to programming and keep more students from dropping out early. Java certainly has its place in enforcing verbosity, OO, coding standards, etc.

I think the mission here is to ease people into coding so if they don't want to progress any further up maybe they'll just manage a companies small PHP website or something and have the knowledge to do that.

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