New Features
With this release, we’re introducing debugging in projects! This preview feature allows you to set breakpoints, step through code, and inspect variables. Program control flow is one of the most challenging concepts to teach in Computer Science, and the Debugger is a great tool to help students understand how a program executes.
To try out debugging, log in to VS Code for Education, select My Work >> My Projects, and create a New Project. Type some code into your editor, and select the Debug option. This is available in the drop-down arrow to the right of the “Run” (green triangle) button. You will see the Debugger start and a Debug toolbar appear at the top. From here you can step through your code.
You will see the Debugger start and a Debug toolbar appear at the top. From here you can step through your code. For more information about the Debug toolbar and actions, click here.
We look forward to your feedback on this new preview feature, including the buttons, sidebar view, and overall functionality!
Improvements
This release includes the following improvements:
- Updated window layouts for two scenarios: 1) top and bottom: when working with the editor and a REPL; and 2) left and right: when only working with a REPL.
- Updated estimated time of completion for all lessons and units
- Updated contrast of images and text for accessibility
- Feedback added when copying code from a code block
- Increased support for screen readers and keyboard navigation
- Added support for stopping a program in the REPL
Bug Fixes
The following bugs have been squashed:
- Several “Check Your Understanding” assessments didn’t support selecting multiple choices when required for a correct response
- Code blocks did not always display color syntax highlighting
- Validation of “Code Challenges” updated with additional feedback for students