[hctaw]

I think the problem is equating "coding" to "algorithmic thinking."

Most coding problems are wiring stuff up. If you can change a tire or put together a LEGO set, you can probably write code.

The problem with the golden geese that you're pointing out is mostly one of tooling, in my opinion. Undergrads at top CS programs are as clueless as your grandmother about developing software because the tools are either toys for children or extremely sharp knives with a blade on the handle. This is a problem that replit is trying to solve.

[User23]

Spreadsheets are the classic example for non-programmers giving computers nontrivial practical commands in a systematic way.

[kevinmchugh]

I wish spreadsheets had better support for version control and automated regression testing. Tons of people can program, and they'd all be well-served by such tools.