Background

jLogo Programming

Java

Appendices

Updates

Lastly

Welcome

Now available here in German thanks to Valeria Aleksandrova.

Welcome to BFOIT's "Introduction to Programming and Computer Science" website. Since you're here, reading this, my guess is that you are pretty savvy regarding technology. You browse/search the web to find anything you're interested in; you use e-mail and/or text messaging all the time. With a smart phone, you now can access almost anything on the Internet, watch video, listen to music, play games... But, do you really know what's going on inside a computer? Do you know how computer programmers tell a computer how to do the things you see happening?

This website is for parents and teachers, and some students. It is a walk-through of the basic concepts behind writing computer programs, with an emphasis on graphics and games. The goal is for students to have fun, while learning the importance and practical aspects of mathematics, processes, problem solving, and critical thinking.

So, if you are a parent that wants to coach a daughter or son through learning how to program or a teacher responsible for introducing a diverse group of students to computer science and programming, this material will be a good guide. Read through the lessons and act as a coach - demonstrate concepts in the lessons, let your student(s) run with the exercises, and help them when needed. See the preface for more information/background.

Otherwise, if you are interested in learning what programming is all about, this website can be a start. We at BFOIT want to evolve our lessons such that they support self-learning. We are always open to your feedback if you feel specific areas need improvement. So, go for it...

For some background on computer programming, start with What's Computer Programming. If you just want to get started, skip all the introduction stuff and get busy Commanding a Turtle.

It will be a challenge at times, but should be fun.