Should Computer Coding Be Offered As A Foreign Language? . Radio | OPB.

Oregon lawmakers are proposing that computer coding be counted towards foreign language requirements for high school students. If HB 2766 passes, high school students will be allowed to take computer coding in lieu of traditional language classes, such as Spanish or French. Proponents of the bill argue (pdf) that coding is an important job skill that students can use anywhere in the world. Opponents say (pdf) that computer coding classes do not have the same cultural value as traditional language classes, which also include material on history and customs. Oregon is not alone in this debate; Texas passed similar legislation last year.