[Edu-sig] Why is Logo popular, while Python isn't? (was "using Python for a CS 2 course" )

[Guido van Rossum]

> I think the reason why one would want to teach Python, instead of, say Logo 
> or Boxer, is NOT because Python is a *better* teaching language, but because 
> it is more mainstream, AND it *comes close* to being *as good as* Logo for 
> teaching.
> 
> So, why does the mainstream-ness matter -- especially for elementary kids?

<snip>

3) You can get tons of 3rd party extensions that do cool stuff.  Even
   if if's above the kids' heads, the teacher might be able to create
   a simplified API to e.g. pygame.

4) There are lots of others teaching it, and you can use their
   materials.

--Guido van Rossum (home page: http://www.python.org/~guido/)