Inclusive Indigenous Simple Programming Language and Interpreter Written in Chichewa (Chich++)

Mwayiwawo Fortune Solomon Kamvantope*, Pempho Jimu**
*-** DMI St John the Baptist University, Lilongwe, Malawi.
Periodicity:April - June'2024
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jse.18.4.20726

Abstract

This paper aims to bridge the digital divide in Malawi's primary and secondary schools by developing Chich++, a simple console-based programming language in Chichewa (Nyanja). The goal is to teach fundamental programming and computational concepts to children and adults, especially those with limited English proficiency. Inspired by countries like Germany, China, and Japan, which teach IT in native languages, this initiative seeks to provide Malawian students with culturally and linguistically relevant programming education. By using Chichewa, Chich++ aims to democratize programming education and empower individuals to contribute to Malawi's socio-economic development. To achieve this vision, the paper utilizes a combination of powerful tools and resources. Java is the foundational programming language used for developing Chich++ and its infrastructure, building on the Java Interpreter Structure. Additionally, a graphical editor is employed to create the language's lessons on a documentation panel, paired with a code editor and an output pane. Preliminary (desired) results indicate a suitable engagement theme and comprehensive way for students using Chich++ to understand basic coding and programming concepts, compared to those learning in English. Positive feedback highlights the potential impact on learning outcomes. To achieve this vision, the project utilizes a graphical editor that facilitates the construction of lessons, with a well-thought documentation area to enhance the learning experience.

Keywords

Interpreter, Education Programming Language, Chichewa, Graphical Integrated Development Environment GUI, Abstract Syntax Tree, Digital Divide, Linguistic Divide.

How to Cite this Article?

Kamvantope, M. F. S., and Jimu, P. (2024). Inclusive Indigenous Simple Programming Language and Interpreter Written in Chichewa (Chich++). i-manager’s Journal on Software Engineering, 18(4), 1-19. https://doi.org/10.26634/jse.18.4.20726

References

[2]. Kendall, N., & Samati, M. (2022). Teaching and Learning Materials in Malawi. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
[3]. Nystrom, R. (2021). Crafting Interpreters. Genever Benning.
[4]. Isaacs, S. (2015). A Baseline Study on Technology-Enabled Learning in the African and Mediterranean Countries of the Commonwealth: Report. Commonwealth of Learning (COL).
[9]. Gudmundsdottir, G. (2010). From digital divide to digital equity: Learners' ICT competence in four primary schools in Cape Town, South Africa. International Journal of Education and Development using ICT, 6(2), 84-105.
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