I would like to thank all those who responded to my original posting asking for information and suggestions regarding the use of Ada vs Java as an initial teaching language -- most useful. It looks as if we will continue using Ada for all our initial programming courses for at least another year although I expect the issue to resurface before too long! However the introduction of a second year course in Java (plus the existing one in C++) may help stem the tide. Thanks Alan ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Dr. Alan Barnes Computer Science Telephone: +44 121 359 3611 Ext. 4663 Aston University E-Mail: [log in to unmask] Aston Triangle Fax: +44 121 333 6215 Birmingham B4 7ET U. K.