With the purpose of addressing the area of language choice in computer programming, this paper specifically addresses the use of BASIC as a language for secondary level students. Perspectives are offered on: (1) the role of computers in science education; (2) the differences in quality and intent of PASCAL and BASIC; (3) the role of a non-structured programming language approach; and (4) the problem of cognitive matching. An increase in research is advocated for such areas as the roles of programming in science education, an analysis of the task structure and curriculum demand of languages such as PASCAL, and the effect of prior unstructured programming experience on the acquisition of structured programming skills. A reference list is also provided. (ML)