Nir Soffer wrote: >> >> On the contrary - it might be even more relevant for first language >> course. Note that it is addressed to the lecturer, not the students. >> Since many teachers have the wrong concept of python variables, they >> tend to "spoil" the students: >> >> * They waste time on useless definitions of what a "variable" is >> (students already *know* what a name is, so it takes only a few words), >> the only result of which is confusing them. >> * They explain python statements and examples using misleading terms: >> e.g. read "a=3" as "store the value 3 in the variable a" (instead of >> "bind the name a to the object 3") - no wonder the student would expect >> the previous "value" to be overriden. > > > Then use the correct definition when you teach - but don't talk about > how variables work in other languages. > When *I* teach I'll try my best. As long as it's other people doing the teaching, I can only try convincing them to avoid what I perceive as a major obstacle, by posting annoying messages and wiki pages. I do think that comparing to a language better known by the instructor (AFAIK) makes these specific means more effective.
And speaking of wiki pages - guy, did you read my comments on the wiki pages (refs in prev post)? I got the impression that you prefer it all bein done by mail - if you have trouble with that media I can post them here.
