How applicable is Python as first computer language for teaching programming in a pre-university educational environment, from a teacher's point of view?

TL;DR

This paper evaluates Python's suitability as a first programming language in pre-university education, based on historical, scientific, and practical perspectives, including a case study in Greek secondary schools.

Contribution

It provides an analysis of Python's educational properties and practical application in Greek secondary education, contributing empirical insights into its effectiveness for teaching programming.

Findings

Python has favorable educational properties for beginners.

Practical application in Greek schools shows positive engagement.

Historical analysis supports Python's suitability as a first language.

Abstract

This project report attempts to evaluate the educational properties of the Python computer language, in practice. This is done by examining computer language evolution history, related scientific background work, the existing educational research on computer languages and Python's experimental application in higher secondary education in Greece, during first half of year 2002. This Thesis Report was delivered in advance of a thesis defense for a Masters/Doctorandus (MSc/Drs) title with the Amstel Institute/Universiteit van Amsterdam, during the same year.