Enhancing the introductory computer science curriculum: C++ or Java?
Andrei Irimia · Journal of computing sciences in colleges · 2001
Java is a better choice than C++ to teach introductory programming courses for three primary reasons. First of all, it is easier to learn since many programming concepts can be better taught in it rather than C++. Because the language represents an advanced step of computing technology, programming principles can be conveyed in a much easier fashion in Java than in C++. Secondly, Java's documentation is very useful and well organized. The language offers a good chance for the student to become acquainted with real-life programming situations and its nature is straightforward and friendly. Thirdly, while many features of C++ are rather confusing to the beginner, Java proposes a nice approach to many problems. Debugging in C++ can take a very long time and draw the student away from the purpose of the CS 1 course while Java debugging reinforces the concepts taught in the first course and sets the path for further knowledge acquisition.