Block-based languages offer notable advantages for bringing domain-specific languages (DSLs) closer to an end-user programming audience. Nevertheless, the construction of block-based languages is still a rather ad hoc and low-level endeavour. Language workbenches [1] have been shown to be effective in improving productivity when developing tex- tual or otherwise graphical DSLs. In this paper, we sketch open challenges and work in progress to provide language workbench support for block-based languages. In particular we address dedicated meta languages for defining the syntax of block-based languages. Making block-based lan- guage development part of the common language workbench repertoire will improve the adoption of the block metaphor outside the realm of programming education, and bring DSLs closer to end-user programming.

Sun 4 Nov

Displayed time zone: Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey change

14:10 - 15:00
Accessibility & Language Construction ToolsBLOCKS+ at Beacon Hill
14:10
10m
Talk
Building an Accessible Block Environment
BLOCKS+
Emmanuel Schanzer Brown University, Sina Bahram Prime Access Consulting, Shriram Krishnamurthi Brown University, USA
Pre-print
14:20
5m
Talk
Language Workbench Support for Block-Based DSLs
BLOCKS+
Mauricio Verano Merino Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Tijs van der Storm CWI & University of Groningen
Pre-print
14:25
5m
Talk
Rapid Prototyping for Blocks-based Languages and Environments
BLOCKS+
Josh Caldwell Code.org, Josh Lory Code.org
Pre-print
14:30
5m
Talk
TypeScript: From JavaScript to Blockly and Back
BLOCKS+
Thomas Ball Microsoft Research, Peli de Halleux Microsoft Research, Sam El-Husseini Microsoft, Richard Knoll Microsoft, MichaƂ Moskal Microsoft Research
Pre-print
14:35
25m
Other
Themed Session 3: Break-out discussions and demos/posters
BLOCKS+