About

DrPython was written while I was teaching at North Star. I had decided I wanted to try teaching some students programming. So I began playing around with scheme, c++, java, and python (which I had just picked up). I decided python was the best choice, only I wanted it to be very easy for my students to write a program, click a button, and watch it run. What I wanted was DrScheme, only for Python. Thus DrPython was born.

I settled on wxPython for a toolkit (it was cross platform both in functionality and look and feel, mature, and under a good license).

The program has evolved quite a bit since then, mostly driven by user/developer requests. The 3.x branch has support for plugins, so now a lot of additional functionality is available. Also, this allows me to make parts of the DrPython Core completely optional (like Search In Files or AutoComplete). The 4.x branch will be a partial rewrite aimed at cleaning up the core code, streamlining customization, and otherwise polishing the application.

The design goals are:

  1. Simple, Easy To Use.
  2. High Level of Customization.
  3. Stability.

In terms of customization, there are a wealth of preferences, DrPython is extensible in python through plugins, and there is built in scripting. Commands can also be added to shortcuts, the pop up menu, or the toolbar.

Back to the Top

I am a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (BS in Cognitive Science).

If you have more questions about my academic, programming, or professional interests/qualifications, feel free to send an email.

Back to the Top