Towards a framework for programming environments
📜 Abstract
To help resolve the 'programming environment crisis', this paper aims to establish a proper scientific and engineering foundation for the construction of programming environments, analogous to the frameworks used in the past to solve a similar crisis for operating systems. We propose general principles and a theoretical framework for this new element of computing infrastructure, focusing on structuring, modularity and languages. The impact of developments in computer systems and languages upon programming environments is considered, as is the reactive nature of modern computing paradigms.
✨ Summary
This paper, authored by Abramsky, Gay, and Singh in 2013, outlines a framework for designing programming environments, building on the conceptual lessons learned from operating systems structure. The authors argue for the development of scientific and engineering foundations analogous to those used in operating systems to tackle challenges in programming environments, addressing structuring, modularity, and language design.
The contribution of this paper lies in its proposed theoretical framework and general principles to address the ‘programming environment crisis’, prioritizing modularity, semantic frameworks, and sophistication in programming environments that align with modern computing paradigms.
In terms of influence, the paper appears to have laid foundational ideas related to programming environment structuring, although its direct impact on the industry or further academic citations is not extensively documented or prominent. A review of available academic citations does not reveal particular prominence or extensive referencing of this work in subsequent research literature.