Last week, we have officially released Strype 1.0, a new Python editor and runtime system running entirely in a web browser. After being in development and available for preview and testing for some time, the system is now fully supported for use in classrooms or for individuals wishing to learn Python programming.
Strype’s most unique feature is its frame-based editor, a novel code entry and manipulation technique which makes writing of code quicker, easier and less error prone. In a manner similar to block-based systems, statements are entered and manipulated as single entities, and are laid out on screen automatically. Many syntax errors are avoided, indentation errors are not possible.
While frame-based editing profits from some of the same advantages as block-based programming, it does not, however, suffers the same restrictions: programs in Strype have to full power of the Python language, purely keyboard-based efficient editing is supported, and programs retain the readability, navigability and maintainability of standard Python systems.
Strype is available free of charge, with no installation needed.
Links:
The Strype editor for micro:bit
Strype was developed by the Programming Education Tools Group at King’s College London. Team members: Pierre Weill-Tessier, Neil Brown, Michael Kölling