Haskell is cool!
The last experience I had with computer programming was as a Freshman at Pacific Lutheran University in 1985. The only reason I took it was because I failed miserably at Calculus, but a math course was required. Not being a natural lover of math, I chose computer programming instead. I was like, “Oh my God, you mean I don’t actually have to take a math class in order to get a math credit? Woohoo!”
Anyway, I don’t even remember what the language I used was, but I remember making loops of some sort. It was better (and easier!) than Calculus, and I got my required math credit, so all was well.
But now we’re starting a year of computer programming in Haskell at LSV, and I’m a learner, just like my students. It has been so fun these past two days to watch the kids as they exclaim things like “I did it!” or “It worked!” or “Look!” And then they ask questions like “What if…?” or “Can you…?” and “How do you….? And I am not much different than they. For when I finally saw this
appear on my screen today, I think I threw both of my arms up into the air, and uttered some sort of exclamation.
It may not look like much to you, but to me, it’s a symbol of curiosity and perseverance.
