Reducing the learning curve in an introductory programming course

Learning the syntax of complex programming languages, such as C++ or Java, while simultaneously trying to understand the logic of basic programming constructs continues to be a challenge and a discouraging factor for many students enrolled in introductory programming courses. Even after completing a course that focuses on the logic of programming via a game-like environment, the learning curve to transition to an "industrial strength" programming language is often steep. Visual Logic© (www.visuallogic.org), an interactive, graphical software tool, introduces students to basic programming concepts in an almost syntax-free environment. The software enables novice programmers to develop and test programs in the form of interactive, executable flowcharts that provide students with immediate feedback. The graphical flowchart symbols students use to build their programs provide a visual perspective to abstract concepts including but not limited to branching, looping, arrays, pre-defined functions, IO, and procedures. There is a full Logo-like graphics package that allows students to create graphic programs. The simplicity of the Visual Logic program and its straightforward correlation with the essential structures of most programming languages make the transition to an "industrial" programming language a smooth one. The analysis, algorithm development, and documentation skills students acquire through flowcharting can also be applied to other languages in future courses. This workshop examines the simplicity, power and versatility of using Visual Logic to teach programming concepts, with different approaches in introductory courses: (i) as an entire course in algorithmic thinking, (ii) as the first half of an introductory programming course transitioning to Python, (iii) simultaneously using Visual Logic to illustrate concepts and brainstorm solutions as students learn Java syntax.