This is called logic and critical thinking.PurpleSunray wrote:I don't think that kids necessary need to learn a programming language, but at least they should get some clue about how that stuff works.
Programming is something that people who have a natural talent for logic can pick up quickly as it is a direct expression of logic.
A programming language isn't much different from any other language. Learning a second language requires many years to develop fluency and it is rare for an individual to become fluent enough that a native speaker would be unable to discern between those who have learned and those who are native speakers.
A programming language is used to express logic in a particular format or grammar using a limited set of concepts. (See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turing_completeness )
It makes a bit more sense to take an abstract approach and begin by teaching the foundational concepts of logic and critical thinking to young students along with basic mathematics (geometry, algebra), language (reading, writing) and while touching on various arts (chemistry, physics, music.)
What really needs to change is the focus. The focus should be on logic and critical thinking with the other fields of study used as applications for this core. In addition to that I think research methodology including statistics and sampling methods should be one of the core fields which has been left out of basic education.
Knowledge of logic + research would give every student the ability to conduct their own study as desired. The current system is really designed to train subservient factory drones in strict obedience to authority and rote memorization.
