[Left] [Up] [Right] Role of Computer Languages [Left] [Up] [Right]

Role of Computer Languages

Computer languages are designed to strike a balance in simplicity and problem solving support to a well-defined range of tasks:

  • Fortran. (FORMula TRANslation).

  • C. (systems programming).

  • MATLAB. (matrix programming).

No model can claim to be the definitive one. New generations of computer languages are needed for:

  • Web applications (e.g., HTML, XML, Java, Javascript).

  • Database applications (e.g., SQL).

  • Visual modeling of designs and design ideas (e.g., Unified Modeling Language). Suitable for describing high-level system architecitures.

Language Definition and Use

  • Data. For example, numbers, characters, images, audio, drawings, two- and three-dimensional geometric entities).

  • Syntax. For example, keywords.

  • Semantics. Meaning of elements in the language.

Also need guidance on how to use the language (e.g., online training).

Section 1-7: November, 2001. [Left] [Up] [Right]