The Howdy Glossary

Catrobat is a visual programming language platform enabling users to create mobile games and apps through a drag-and-drop interface, designed for individuals without a computer science background. This platform supports Android and iOS devices, allowing users to convert their projects into fully functional applications suitable for app stores. It was developed by a team aiming to make coding accessible to children, teens, educators, and beginners by leveraging Google's Blockly visual programming language.

Catrobat's focus on mobile game and app development using a simplified drag-and-drop interface promotes algorithmic thinking and logic skills effectively. Its ability to support both major mobile operating systems—Android and iOS—distinguishes it from competitors like Scratch from MIT Media Lab and Tynker. These platforms also target educational use in teaching coding skills but have unique features that cater to slightly different audience segments within the educational technology space. While Scratch allows the creation of interactive stories and animations, Tynker provides courses for varied skill levels in game development.

Catrobat sets itself apart with its emphasis on practical application development for app stores, making it particularly appealing for those interested in directly creating publishable mobile apps. The user-friendly interface simplifies the coding process while promoting essential computational skills among kids, teens, educators, and beginners in computer science. This specialization in mobile game/app creation combined with an accessible approach aligns with broader trends in education technology aimed at democratizing programming knowledge across diverse demographics.