Introducing PyLighter: dynamic code highlighter

Like a screenplay, a program is both a static artifact and instructions for a dynamic performance. This duality can keep laypeople from appreciating the complexity of software systems and can be a stumbling block for novice programmers. PyLighter lets laypeople and novice programmers perceive the relationship between static Python code and its execution. PyLighter works with everything from simple console applications to arcade-style games, and because PyLighter is easy to adopt and use, instructors can integrate it into any Python-based introductory course without changing the rest of their syllabus. Categories and Subject Descriptors K.3.2 [Computer and Information Science Education]: Computer science education; K.3.1 [Computer Uses in Education]: Computer-assisted instruction (CAI); D.2.5 [Testing and Debugging]: Monitors General Terms Algorithms, Experimentation, Human Factors, Languages Keywords PyLighter, CS1, software visualization, presentation tools, Python

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2009
• Where: SIGCSE
• Authors: Michael G. Boland, Curtis C. Cliburn
• Keywords: Computer Science Education, Education, Novice Programmers, SIGCSE 2009, Static Python Code