Well, I don't think anyone here ever suggest to skip asm language. It is VERY important that this be taught, and I have noted with dismay that some CS programs no longer include this. On the other hand, a strong "C" class is also required, after assembly language. So it is not a black and white thing - it is not C vs asm in a learning environment.
As for the coding pad, if it works then use it. Having said that, I do think that students also need exposure to a modern IDE with a debugger. All of what you said about seeing the effects of instruction execution are nicely displayed in the debugger, and can be an effective learning tool. What's more, a nice example of this tool is available for free. I also think that today's engineering students will have the ability to cope with the IDE, as I would presume that a student interested in engineering would already be quite familiar with using complex PC applications. It can't be any more difficult than Matlab.
I think that which machine is used is not at all important, only that it have modern tools available.
I have also observed that some professors in this domain are not willing to learn these new tools, and I think it is to their students detriment. While the monitor is ok for the first few exercises, there is no reason not to use modern tools. There are good for learning, perhaps arguably better. In fact there are some studies that indicate students progress further with these tools (not that you would need a study to figure this out). I also have have
opinion that these tools will be more engaging and interesting to the student, and if equally effective than perhaps better. As to when in the process you introduce this, depends on many factors (unfortunately, one of those factors seems to be the professors willingness to learn the tools).
These methods and ideas are not mutually exclusive. You can use the coding pad and use code warrior. They both have their value as a learning tool. And these are important issues to our nation. as we need a new generation of engineers, and I hope that more professors will realize that there are certain new skills they need to acquire to accomplish this, or at least step aside and embrace a new generation of teachers.
(I am not saying this about anyone in particular, just in general. What I have said is true in some cases, but there are many exceptions as well ).
Message Edited by JimDon on
2008-02-21 11:59 AM