On 9/25/06, Peter Chase <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > I would be happy to raise a peep if I knew what the hell you and Kirby > were talking about. > Maybe someone in this group could explain it to a Bear of Very Little > Brain, like me. > In simple terms. Without using abstractions any more than strictly > necessary.
As I understand it, Arthur and I were arguing about how to best leverage the educational asset known as VPython (vpython.org), used at Carnegie Mellon, Saturday Academy etc., as a part of the physics curriculum or whatever. He advocates stuffing it in the Standard Library so anyone downloading core Python from python.org (which includes said library -- cite "batteries included" slogan) will automatically put VPython in the tree. I advocate focusing instead on the differences between schools willing to excel, by experimenting with new ideas, vs. those choosing to march in lockstep with the mediocres and just "get by". I think schools should manage their own distros (i.e. valve and control what goes on their servers and/or is available to faculty for classroom use). Python.org shouldn't have to lift a finger, is it already plays its role perfectly, as a source of links and core downloads. Here on edu-sig, we provide a resource to the bolder, more experimental schools, in part by conspiring to show how Python might be used to put kids on a fast track towards high level mathematical sophistication, including a better awareness of abstract algebra, thanks to our snake's __rib__ syntax i.e. our ability to overload operators with special names. Many talented teachers contribute to this effort, including Arthur when he's not pretending to some high level of business savvy or fighting his MIT teddy bear. Kirby _______________________________________________ Edu-sig mailing list Edu-sig@python.org http://mail.python.org/mailman/listinfo/edu-sig
