Software engineers and programmers use both language types in their work, with the choice depending on each project’s details, goals and time frame. Other tech pros, such as developers, are familiar with scripting and programming systems. Scripting is typically used to write smaller pieces of code while programming is generally used to write an entire software application.
If you want to become a computer programmer, engineer or development professional, you must understand the differences between both of these languages. We sat down with J.L. Graff, MBA, associate dean of UOPX’s College of Business and Information Technology, to learn more about these technical terms.
“While scripting languages and programming languages are often used interchangeably as scripting languages are programming languages, there are some key differences to note,” Graff explains. “Programming languages use a string of instructions sent to the computer to complete a task. Think of programming languages as way to convert or translate our human thoughts into computer language. Scripting languages are used usually to interpret and execute one line or command at a time and are often more simple to write and implement. In addition, object-oriented scripting language is capable of developing web apps, scripts, cross-platform apps, games and pen-testing exercises.”
Scripting languages rely on existing programs, which are known as interpreters, so they require line-by-line conversion. The coder writes commands, which the interpreter executes one at a time. These languages need a prebuilt runtime environment in which the script is interpreted rather than compiled ahead of time, meaning the code is not translated into machine code until it is executed. This makes scripting much less code-intensive and easier to learn and use than compiled ones. It also means they can be slower and less efficient.
Scripting languages have various purposes. Developers and engineers can use them to automate or enhance existing programs or websites, connect different components or processes, or work with databases and software written in different languages.
Software, app and website development pros select scripting languages based on specific-use cases. For example, AppleScript is used to automate functions in Mac operating systems. Other scripting languages include Lua, Perl, PowerShell, VBScript, Bash and Zsh.
These can all be used for different purposes. “Lua is a scripting language used for game development, including to implement various aspects of game logic,” explains Christina Hauri, the curriculum manager for UOPX’s College of Business and Information Technology. “For example, if you want a game character to move one step to the right when the ‘W’ key is pressed on the keyboard, you could use Lua to create the code to make that happen.”
Programming languages do not require an interpreter program. This makes them ideal for building programs from the ground up. Even though using programming languages for software development requires more time, developers often have more control over every aspect of the project.
Programming languages are compiler-based because they are compiled — essentially, they rely on a specific program that translates code into a machine language — or machine code — for a computer or mobile device.
“Programming languages such as C++ are used to program robotics, self-driving vehicles and various media platforms,” Graff says.
However, programming languages do not need a whole environment to run as scripting languages do. This trait gives developers more control and flexibility. However, it can also increase development and maintenance time.
Some of the first computer codes, including COBOL and Basic, were programming languages. Today, the following languages are widely used:
Even though programming languages are known to be more complicated, computer science and IT students can learn the basics of one or more programming languages through educational courses or their own experiences.
As Spanish is to Italian, scripting and programming languages have plenty in common. Here is where they part ways:
At the same time, those intent on business software or mobile app development may want to spend time learning C++ or Java. Despite the steeper learning curve, these programming languages are necessary for specific development projects.
Both programming and scripting languages have trade-offs related to performance and efficiency. While scripting languages are easier to use and test during the development process, they may lack the performance capabilities of programming languages, which can execute and run in any environment.
In most cases, scripting languages are the better choice for web-based and internet-connected development. In many such projects, developers work to expand or enhance a program or app using an existing framework. Since scripting languages do not require memory, they are the preferred choice for online development.
For large-scale projects, scripting languages may be too slow and limiting. In addition to business systems, some mobile device apps requiring a high level of performance rely on Java or C++. Once the original program is complete, scripting languages can add functionality and enhancements.