MiniScript: A New Language for Computer Programming Education

Abstract

Computer programming is fundamental to modern STEM (science, technology, engineering, & math) education and industry. Visual programming environments such as Scratch provide a gentle introduction to the topic for young children, but the transition to text-based languages such as Python or C# can be a difficult leap. A new scripting language, MiniScript, has been designed to fill this gap. It uses minimal syntax and a carefully selected small set of language features to present a less intimidating challenge for the learner. At the same time, the language is complete enough to be used for sophisticated games and other programs. Finally, MiniScript itself is lightweight and designed to be embedded into other software written in either C# or C/C++, making it more likely that children will encounter the language in the context of games, thus providing self-motivated learning opportunities.