Python is a programming/scripting language that can be used on many different computers and operating systems, including Windows, Unix, Macintosh, etc. I’ve heard of it being run on everything from palm computers to Cray super computers. For a number of reasons, it’s the *best* way to learn computer programming in general. The first few that come to mind are:

  • The interactive “shell” allows you to instantly see if you did it right. Personally I find the Python shell easier to use than a calculator for everyday math at home and at work.
  • The language is elegant and just plain makes sense, which means you or someone else can read your code weeks or months after you wrote it, and it will still make sense!
  • Python was designed from the ground up for learning programming.
  • You gotta love the awesome Python community of people who really want to help, such as the Python tutor email list.
  • It has a short learning curve, which can have you programming successfully within minutes (really).
  • Including the one that comes with the free Python download, there plenty of tutorials available for both programmers and people new to programming.
  • It’s free and open source.
  • It was named after Monty Python, which makes you wonder…..
  • It’s a good stepping-stone to languages like Perl, Java, and C++, which make more sense after picking up some Python.
  • It’s cross-platform, so the code you write for your Windows PC at home can be run on the linux server at work!

I’ve decided to abandon the pretense of objectivity at this point. Python is great! If you want to learn or teach computer programming without a massive brain melt-down, you need look no further.

Are there other good teaching languages?
Sure, or there would be no programmers today.

Is it useful in the “Real World”?
With Python’s (over 200!) built-in modules, and so many others readily available, you can do pretty much any high-level task you set your mind to.

Is there any decent documentation?
A year ago, I had a few complaints about available documentation. Truly inspired authors such as Mark Lutz (and quite a few others) have since shut my mouth on the subject.

Is Python the most glorious, wonderful teaching language available?
Ohhh, yeah.