Debunking Computer Science Starters: Command Line Interface vs Programming Languages

The debate over whether a computer science student should learn the command line interface (CLI) or a programming language first is a timeless one. While both skills are critical, the decision often hinges on the individual's goals and the specific context of their educational journey. This article explores the nuances of each approach and suggests a balanced strategy for a well-rounded education in computer science.

Learning the Command Line Interface (CLI) First

Fundamental Skills: The CLI provides a foundational set of skills that are invaluable across many areas of computer science. It encompasses file management, system navigation, and basic scripting, which are essential in various specialized fields.

Environment Setup: Many programming environments and tools are accessed through the command line. Familiarity with the CLI can significantly reduce the hurdles in setting up and running programs, making the student's journey smoother.

Scripting: Understanding the command line can lead to learning shell scripting, which is highly valuable for automating tasks. This not only enhances productivity but also deepens the student's understanding of computer systems and processes.

Learning a Programming Language First

Immediate Application: Starting with a programming language like Python, Java, or C can provide immediate gratification and a sense of accomplishment. Students can begin solving problems and building projects right away, which can be highly motivating.

Conceptual Understanding: Learning a programming language introduces key concepts such as variables, control structures, data types, and algorithms. These concepts are fundamental to understanding computer science and form the bedrock of more advanced topics.

Higher-Level Thinking: Focusing on programming can help students develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills more quickly. This is crucial for tackling complex and abstract problems in computer science.

A Balanced Approach: Starting with Both Concurrently

BadRequest Recommendation: An ideally balanced approach is to learn both the CLI and a programming language concurrently. Starting with a programming language while incorporating basic CLI skills can provide a well-rounded foundation.

Context Matters: The context of the curriculum significantly influences the order in which these skills should be learned. If the curriculum emphasizes software development, starting with a programming language may be more beneficial. Conversely, if the focus is on systems, networks, or DevOps, then CLI skills might take precedence.

A Suggested Order: Top-Down Approach

Here's a suggested order that aligns with a top-down or outside-in perspective, which emphasizes understanding the bigger picture before delving into the details:

Debugging in machine language: Start with understanding how hardware works and interact with it through a debugger in machine language. System Software and Operating System Concepts: Learn about the big picture of system and software concepts, including the operating system, and how to poke at it via the shell, possibly including some shell scripting. System and Software Architecture: Acquire some foundational sysadmin skills such as installing and configuring software, and understand how pieces of software interact. Major Subsystems: Start interacting with major subsystems, such as databases, both via a GUI and CLI commands. Low-Level Data Structures and Algorithms: Dive into assembly language and explore input/output hacking, as well as how assemblers work in parallel with learning about low-level data structures and algorithms. Higher-Level Algorithms and Data Structures: Transition to higher-level algorithms and data structures, learning multiple paradigms and picking up programming languages as necessary. Application Domain Problem Solving and Basic Software Engineering: Finally, tackle application domain problem solving, system design, run-time environments, development, and build tools. Also, incorporate a basic science, engineering, and math background. Research Writing and Communication Skills: Conclude with some basic research writing and communication skills.

With this structured approach, you are well-prepared to call yourself a newbie computer scientist, ready to challenge the frontiers of knowledge and practice.

Conclusion

Both the CLI and programming languages are crucial skills for a computer science student. The best approach is often to integrate them as a part of the learning process, particularly starting with a programming language while incorporating basic CLI skills for a well-rounded education.