The summary of [Wayback/Archive] Is Fortran better than Python for teaching the basics of numerical linear algebra? – Dr. Jean-Christophe Loiseau is:
- 1-based indexing prevents off-by-1 errors
- structure is key, especially these foundations:
- clear begin/end constructs instead of visual clues
- strong typing
- verbose programming languages are easier to learn than non-verbose ones
Modern Fortran helps a lot here and shows that after the initial 13 year gaps between FORTRAN 77 and Fortran 90, and between Fortran 90 and Fortran 2003 (the ANSI Standard Fortran and Fortran 95 in between versions were just minor updates), Modern Fortran has come a very long way and now as a thriving community and an extensive list of Fortran software and tools.
Other typed languages and tool sets like C# and Delphi come to mind here as well though you need libraries with 1-based data structures to solve the first point.
The Wiert Corner - irregular stream of stuff 