"Why Johnny Can't Code" - How This Article Led to the Creation of Small Basic

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Why Johnny Can't Code
The article "Why Johnny Can't Code" by David Brin, published in 2006, laments the lack of accessible programming languages for children. Brin recounts his personal quest to find a simple and straightforward way to run the introductory programming language BASIC on his computer, aiming to provide his son with a foundational understanding of how computers work. He expresses concern that modern personal computers no longer offer a line-programming language like BASIC, which was once widely available. 


The Simplicity of BASIC Helped Kids Learn Coding
Brin argues that BASIC's simplicity allowed young students to grasp programming concepts and engage in hands-on learning, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying processes of computers. He criticizes the dismissal of BASIC as obsolete by industry experts and laments the absence of similar pedagogical tools in modern programming languages. Brin highlights the need for accessible programming languages that enable students to gain a deep understanding of coding principles and believes that the current lack of such tools deprives future generations of technological empowerment.


Brin's Article Led to the Creation of Small Basic
Vijaye Raji, a programmer at Microsoft, was inspired by David Brin's article, "Why Johnny Can't Code." Brin's call for a new BASIC language that would facilitate coding education for children resonated with Raji. Recognizing the need for a beginner-friendly programming language, he set out to create a smaller version of BASIC that focused on its simplest elements. Drawing from Brin's challenge, on October 23, 2008, Raji released Microsoft Small Basic v0.1, the first version of Small Basic. This programming language aimed to provide young learners with an accessible platform to write various applications, including games, simulations, and animations. Raji's work on Small Basic was a direct response to the concerns raised in Brin's article, offering a solution to the absence of easily accessible programming languages for children.


The Need for Accessible Coding Languages for Children
David Brin's article raises important points about the lack of accessible programming languages for children, highlighting the significance of understanding the foundational principles of coding. Brin's concern for empowering future generations with technological skills resonates, as programming becomes increasingly essential in various fields.


Vijaye Raji's Inspiring Decision to Create Small Basic
Vijaye Raji's response to Brin's article through the creation of Small Basic is commendable. Recognizing the need for a beginner-friendly programming language, Raji took up the challenge and developed a simplified version of BASIC that could serve as a stepping stone for young learners. Small Basic's focus on simplicity and its ability to enable the creation of various applications, including games and simulations, aligns with Brin's call for accessible tools that foster creativity and technological mastery.

Raji's response demonstrates a proactive approach to address the concerns raised by Brin. By providing a platform like Small Basic, Raji sought to bridge the gap and enable young students to engage with programming concepts in a hands-on manner. It is encouraging to see a tangible solution emerge from the discussion presented in Brin's article, as it showcases the impact that such discussions can have on inspiring positive change in the realm of education and programming.




Source Article:  Salon - Why Johnny Can't Code
Source Article:  Microsoft TechNet - Interviews with Vijaye Raji, the creator of Small Basic
Image by StartupStockPhotos from Pixabay

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