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Description:
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This dissertation evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of generic and language specific iconic programming systems , investigates the feasibility of developing iconic grammars , and provides a requirements definition for automatically developing the next generation of iconic editing systems from an iconic lex and yacc^1 .
The research undertaken is a continuation of the work on iconic programming systems begun in 1991 . The original prototype system , BACCII - was designed to be a teaching aid and design tool for entry level computer programming courses . The tool allows students to program generically using iconic representations within a syntax directed editing environment . The student then generates one of several languages to send through a compiler . The original version was targeted at the procedural paradigm with Pascal being the language of choice . The system evolved and was eventually modified to accommodate the object -oriented paradigm as well , specifically generating C++ . |