I've taught hundreds of C.S. students here. The earlier a student starts turning problems into programs, the safer her eventual clients will be. Cars are dangerous, but we don't require auto mechanics to know about the thermo- dynamics of combustion engines or the social consequences of motor travel. We ask only that they be competent mechanics. This prompts me to make all sorts of comments on this issue, although they may have to wait until later.
Any damned fool can write code.
It also takes a lot of discipline, good taste, an instinct for elegance, training, and experience. I prefer really good, experienced mechanics who work well because they know what they are doing. PGN Report problems with the web pages to the maintainer .