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A tool designed to facilitate structured programming

Published:01 February 1977Publication History
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Abstract

An algorithmic language interpreter is presented which provides users of various technical backgrounds a convenient way to describe algorithms and simultaneously focus on problem-solving concepts: problem analysis, algorithm development, and the computer implementation of the algorithm. The interpreter permits the use of decision tables as a means of expressing complex logic.

In view of the significance of structured programming in today's environment (and that of the future), the language processor allows three logical constructs: sequential, IF... THEN...ELSE..., and the DO WHILE construct. The use of GO TOs is only allowed to transfer control from one table to another. Hence, several tables/subtables (each may contain 1 decision table) may be required for the description of an algorithm. Examples are presented to illustrate how the language interpreter enhances programming organization and thereby facilitates structured programming.

References

  1. 1 Arnold, H. O., "Utilization of a Decision Table Translator for Basic Program Creation," SIGPLAN NOTICES 61,8(Sept. 1971), 12-19. Google ScholarGoogle ScholarDigital LibraryDigital Library
  2. 2 Devine, D. J., "Decision Tables as a Basis of a Programming Language," DPMA Quarterly 7 (1965), 461-466.Google ScholarGoogle Scholar
  3. 3 Dahl, O. J., Dijkstra, E. W. Hoare, C.A.R., Structured Programming, Academic Press, 1972. Google ScholarGoogle ScholarDigital LibraryDigital Library
  4. 4 Gries, D., "What Should we Teach in an Introductory Programming Course?", Fourth Symposium on Computer Science Education 0,1(Feb. 1974), 81-89. Google ScholarGoogle ScholarDigital LibraryDigital Library
  5. 5 Knuth, D. E., "Structured Programming with go to statements," Computing Surveys 6,4(Dec. 1974) 261-301. Google ScholarGoogle ScholarDigital LibraryDigital Library
  6. 6 Wirth, N. "On the Composition of Well-Structured Programs", Computing Surveys 6,4(Dec. 1974) 247-259. Google ScholarGoogle ScholarDigital LibraryDigital Library
  7. 7 Yohe, J. M. "An Overview of Programming Practices", Computing Surveys 6,4(Dec. 1974) 221-245. Google ScholarGoogle ScholarDigital LibraryDigital Library

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          • Published in

            cover image ACM SIGCSE Bulletin
            ACM SIGCSE Bulletin  Volume 9, Issue 1
            Special issue seventh technical symposium on computer science education
            Feb 1977
            187 pages
            ISSN:0097-8418
            DOI:10.1145/382063
            Issue’s Table of Contents
            • cover image ACM Conferences
              SIGCSE '77: Proceedings of the seventh SIGCSE technical symposium on Computer science education
              February 1977
              187 pages
              ISBN:9781450374071
              DOI:10.1145/800104

            Copyright © 1977 ACM

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            Association for Computing Machinery

            New York, NY, United States

            Publication History

            • Published: 1 February 1977

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