Computer science is a fascinating field that blends logic, creativity, and problem-solving. It’s a realm where students often find themselves in the role of a teacher, imparting knowledge to their digital pupils—computers. The journey begins with simple commands and gradually builds up to more complex tasks. Here’s a glimpse into the foundational five concepts that not only teach the computer but also shape your mind as a learner.

These are the first five things I taught my first computer:

1. Communication: ‘Hello World!’

The first lesson in computer programming is akin to teaching a child to say their first words. The ‘Hello World’ program is a rite of passage for all budding teachers of computers. It’s simple yet profound, marking the beginning of a dialogue between human and machine.

2. Music: Coding Melodies

Next, we venture into the realm of music. Programming a computer to play ‘Jingle Bells’ in BASIC might seem whimsical, but it teaches the importance of sequences and timing. It’s a playful way to explore how computers can interpret and execute instructions to create something as harmonious as a melody. Why Jingle Bells? I got my first computer for Christmas in 1983.

3. Art: Drawing with Code

From auditory art, we move to visual. Drawing the Columbia Space Shuttle using BASIC commands is not just about creating a digital image; it’s about understanding coordinates, geometry, and the translation of a concept into a visual form through code. Why the Space Shuttle? I dreamed of being an astronaut when I was a child.

4. Mathematics: The Language of Logic

Mathematics is the universal language, and for computers, it’s no different. Teaching a computer to calculate ‘2 + 2’ in BASIC is an exercise in precision and logic. It’s a fundamental skill that underpins more complex operations and algorithms.

5. Gaming: Roulette in BASIC

Finally, we come to games. Programming a game of Roulette is an engaging way to bring together all the previous lessons. It encompasses communication, sequence, logic, and even a bit of randomness—elements that are crucial in many aspects of computing.

Building Blocks of Computational Thinking

These five lessons are more than just exercises; they are the building blocks of computational thinking. They encourage students to deconstruct problems, think algorithmically, and approach challenges with a computational perspective.

The Evolution of Learning

In our increasingly digital world, these skills are invaluable, transcending beyond the screen and influencing various aspects of life. As we continue to advance in technology, the lessons we teach computers—and in turn, ourselves—will evolve. But the essence remains the same: to communicate, create, calculate, and play. These are not just tasks; they are the cornerstones of innovation in our digital age.

From Past to Present

Today, thanks to the intelligence my computer has gained from being taught in these areas, I can ask it to help me write this blog post that I have been thinking about for several years. The journey from programming ‘Hello World’ in BASIC to collaborating with AI systems represents an incredible evolution in human-computer interaction.

So, let’s keep teaching, learning, and exploring the limitless potential of computer science. Who knows what the next ‘Hello World’ might bring?

What were the first things you taught a computer? I’d love to hear about your early programming experiences and how they shaped your approach to technology.