What is TouchDevelop?

TouchDevelop is a novel programming environment that runs on iPad, iPhone, Android, PC, Mac, Windows Phone. If you have a mobile device, you write scripts by tapping on the screen. You do not need a separate PC or keyboard. TouchDevelop can be used in the classroom to teach programming concepts, and TouchDevelop is also ideal for classes on Mobile Computing, as it cuts the time required to write apps.

There are two flavours of the TouchDevelop programming environment:

• The TouchDevelop Web App runs in most modern browsers. It has advanced programming language features that are not yet available in the Windows Phone app.
• The TouchDevelop Windows Phone app gives access to most sensors and data providers available on modern smartphones. Some of these sensors and data providers are not available in the Web App. More resources for educators interested in using Windows Phone...

Learn more about platforms and supported features, click here

Why TouchDevelop?

No installation required

• HTML 5 based so all you need is a web enabled device and an up-to-date web browser (No installation or plugins needed)

Visual programming environment 

• Students aren't snarled up with syntax

Works on a variety devices 

• Supported by a number of platforms (Windows, Android, iOS) and majority of web browsers (Internet Explorer, Safari and Chrome)
  

Bridges the gap 

• Bridges the gap between BYOB programming environments (such as Scratch and App Inventor) and higher level languages (such as C++, Java and Python etc.)

Cloud based 

• Anywhere / anytime learning
• Students have a global audience for their work

Social

• Students can share their apps with a community of other developers and get feedback on their work

Encourages Indie game development

• Looks great on a student's C.V. - especially if the student has published their app to the Windows / Android / iOS app store