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:
- Simple, Easy To Use.
- High Level of Customization.
- 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.
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.