Windows/Mac/Linux: When learning a programming language for the first time it can be difficult to see how lines of code translate to visual elements. Free educational webapp Greenfoot provides a structured sandbox where programming students create ‘actors' that live in ‘worlds' to build simulations, games, and and other visual programs.


Greenfoot's interface is a full IDE that allows you to edit source code, compile, and debug. Best of all, everything is written in the same standard Java that paid developers use instead of an educational-only language like Alice.

In addition to the program itself, Greenfoot provides a variety of tutorials, community support, and teacher resources. If you've taught yourself coding basics but want to produce something as a beginner other than lines of code you should consider giving Greenfoot a test drive.


Greenfoot: Teach & Learn Java Programming | via MakeUseOf