Re: Ada student homework ?

[Lao Xiao Hai <laoxhai@ix.netcom.com>]

Ted Dennison wrote:

> In article <3A09416E.4C9BE1C8@cadwin.com>,
>   Nicolas Brunot <n.brunot@cadwin.com> wrote:
> > The main point here is how Ada programmers are considered by non Ada
> > programmers.
>
> I don't think so. If I can be brutally honest here, anyone who has that
> much trouble figuring out how an "if" statement works will *never* be a
> programmer, Ada or otherwise.

I have to agree with Nicolas with regard to what seems to be his plea
for courtesy, even toward lowly students.    While the problem may
seem trivial to those of us experienced in programming ( in whatever
language),  we often forget that some newcomers to programming don't
instantly grok simple concepts.

Indeed, one only need examine the variety of solutions submitted for
our entertainment to note that more than one approach to the
problem is possible.   I, an intellectual plodder,  can dimly recall
some of my early days in programming where ideas I now accept
as easily as breathing caused me enough trouble that I wondered if
I would ever learn this stuff.  Perhaps there are other plodders out
there for whom new ideas are also absorbed slowly.

A person with a question, whether  a student in a school setting or
a beginning programmer trying to learn without benefit of a teacher,
should be treated  with respect.   I have certainly asked enough
stupid questions in my time, and hope to ask more stupid questions
before I bask in the reflection from the white satin lining an open casket.

Is the student cheating on his/her homework by asking the question?
Perhaps it depends on what we want them to learn.   I am not sure
if it was Stravinsky who said, "Good musicians borrow, but great
musicians steal."   If the inquiring student finally gains an understanding

through asking a question, perhaps that is a breakthrough.

I do agree that posting the actual solution short-circuits the opportunity
for learning.  However, instead of handing that student the answer
directly, we might consider, respectfully, posing some useful questions
or giving guidance useful to him/her in solving the problem.

My view is that we treat everyone who chooses to enter this
forum with respect, even those who aren't as smart or experienced
as we might think we are. *

Sorry if this seems harsh.

Richard Riehle

    * Unless, of course, they are programming in some language we don't
like. :-)