[ge-talk] (no subject)

[Ronald Vos]

>
> Like I pointed out before, it should be like learning javascript on
> the web. You see some examples and you gradually pick it up. Who
> learned it just from reading a book? But it only works if the language
> is widespread, consistent, simple and english based.Vms dcl,
> Applescript and rebol could be good as models.


What if programs, in addition to their normal functioning, output the
commands with the right programhooks needed to repeat the action you just
performed to some sort of 'log-view window'.

Say you copy a file, then in the log-view window the correct command
complete with correct syntax and the source + destination used appear.
Or, taking the example from http://www.birdhouse.org/beos/byte/08-scripting/,
when you move the window of StyledEdit to a different location on screen,
the log-view window shows:

hey StyledEdit set Frame of Window "Foo" to \
	"BRect($80, $80, $558, $700)"

(no clue if the values used are realistic, and a facility like 'hey' would
need to become part of the standard tool repertoire)

The example used isn't the most exciting one possible, but clicking on
buttons generally causes BMessages to be sent, and these would be exposed.

Result: Computer user can see what he needs to type in to do something
similar next time, using a bit of intelligence (like figuring out what he
needs to change). Perhaps add in a way to automagically call up help on any
highlighted words / parameters if you want to go the extra mile.


<superoptimistic mode>ideally ideally ideally the whole scripting
> language should be localizable so that instead of typing "if" you'd
> type in the equivalent in your own language. Examples would be
> "babelized"
> Why should you have to know english in order to use a computer? </mode>


Problem with localised commands is that 'help-files' or previously gained
knowledge sometimes pre-supposed the english versions. Setting up localised
'alternates' seems like a pure win. Although commands like 'mv' seem to defy
localisation :)


>
> > The problem I'm getting at is not such one as an AI system but more a
> > question like, "I want to do something, but I don't now which tools will
> > do that for me" I want to rename some files, sent an email, make some
> > music but I haven't got the slightest idea that I'd really like to type
> > mv, thunderbird &, garageband (that's why I'd like to have a description
> > together with a name in eg. deskbar/apps so you don't end up with VLC
> > but VLC dvdplayer, music player or just player.
>
> Well, most people would agree that if you want to rename something
> you'd type in "rename" instead of "mv" or "$.?$%$$^//!"
> i think if you want to search for audio apps you would search the mime
> filetype database


Building in a keyword recogniser coupled to 'helpful suggestions' has the
possibility to be of great help and to infuriate users :)
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