Communications of the ACM
Computer Languages Cannot Teach the Skills Kids Learn in Foreign Language Classes
Seventh grade students bowing and saying Namaste in Hindi class at Central Junior High in Bedford, Texas.
Credit: Lara Solt / Dallas News
The Texas State Board of Education quietly adopted criteria, after a bill passed by the Texas Legislature last session, to change high school graduation requirements to allow advanced computer science courses to replace foreign language instruction. Now, those who enroll in an advanced placement or international baccalaureate class in computer science can use that course to fulfill the LOTE (languages other than English) graduation requirement.
Computer science has its place in high school education. However, computer science is not a language. Those who suggest coding is similar to human language fail to consider the complexities of human communication.
Communication isn't simply strings of words; it's intonation, body language and sometimes humorous double meanings. Developing a better awareness of these communication skills is necessary for preparing all high school students to be successful in any field—including STEM fields.
In foreign language classes, students learn to become better communicators. Learning a new language forces students to cope with the vulnerability of expressing themselves with fewer resources. When students work with a new language, they start to see how they can use their nonverbal skills, such as body language and facial expressions, to help them convey meaning.
From Dallas News
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