This letter is associated with the following article:
Letters
Thursday, September 14, 2006 12:00 AM

Why Johnny can't code

BASIC used to be on every computer a child touched -- but today there's no easy way for kids to get hooked on programming.

Read other letters about this article

  • Thursday, September 14, 2006 05:20 AM

    Cry me a river.

    Basic isn't available anymore? Cry me a river. Rather than saddling the poor kid with C++ or dragging him back to the stone age with an Apple II, hook him up with a $15 a month hosting account and a PHP book. No, it won't be the same way that you learned but people (including kids) who have an interest programming will take whatever route is available to them.

Most Active Letters Threads

426

A key British official reminds us of the forgotten anthrax attack

A vast array of establishment and expert sources do not believe this episode was really resolved.
287

The crazy, irrational beliefs of Muslims

Tom Friedman explains the real problem: stupid Muslims think the U.S. is about war and aggression.
210

Is Obama's civil liberties record understandable?

Was it unreasonable to expect him to adhere to his commitments regarding the Constitution?
111

How dare you criticize wasteful defense spending!

So you think it's only terrorist-appeasing lefties who are down on Pentagon profligacy? Think again
57

Police to talk to Woods

Early morning crash raises questions, and revives tabloid speculation

View all »

Letters Help

Currently in Salon