If you're a visual learner, or if you wonder how visual and auditory information is translated into the language of computers, graphical programming might be for you. Keep reading to learn how graphical programming is used and how you can obtain training and certification.
Graphical Programming Defined
The graphical approach to programming allows a computer to process spatial representations in two or more dimensions. In contrast to text-based programming, which uses lines of code, graphical programming replaces text with pictures or symbols of physical things.
Graphical programming provides an approach that's more intuitive and less cumbersome for some programmers. It also can be a more effective way to introduce computer programming to visual learners. For example, researchers at the Lifelong Kindergarten Group have created a program called Scratch, which uses graphical programming to help children learn math and engage in creative thinking.
Graphical programming is often called visual programming or Visual Programming Language (VPL). It's different from Microsoft's Visual Basic, which defines pictures by using text-based language.
<h3 id="section---ImportantInformationAboutGraphicalProgramming">Important Information About Graphical Programming</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Degree Levels</td><td> Undergraduate and graduate level courses are available.</td></tr>
<tr><td>Degree Fields of Study</td><td>Although graphical programming isn't typically offered as a major, courses covering it are often included in various fields of study including computer science and engineering.</td></tr>
<tr><td>Prerequisites</td><td>Confidence using computers and basic, text-based programming languages.</td></tr>
<tr><td>Possible Careers</td><td>Software development, web development, computer programming, and video game development.</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $120,730 (<i>for all software developers</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 26% growth (<i>for all software developers</i>)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---HowGraphicalProgrammingIsUsed">How Graphical Programming Is Used</h3><p>Graphical programming is most frequently used in the stages of engineering systems design. Engineers and programmers might use graphical programs to translate information about physical events, such as vibrations that occur during the testing of automotive engines, into visual readouts.
</p><p>Graphical programming tools also might be used to employ block diagrams, connectors and virtual instruments, such as temperature gauges. The result is a user interface that can be used to control and monitor an automated process.
</p><p>Graphical programs also are used to analyze mathematical functions, such as those used in signal processing. Additionally, users can access databases of information on terrain, demographics and buildings. Such programs might be used in cellular system design.
</p><h3 id="section---Certification">Certification</h3><p>At least one company, National Instruments, offers certification in its graphical programming software, LabVIEW, to applicants who pass a written examination. National Instruments also offers on-site and online training programs to prospective students with all levels of experience.</p>
