Netizens debate as video of children discussing coding goes viral
What's the story
A viral video featuring children discussing coding, has sparked a debate on social media about the appropriate age for kids to start learning this skill.
The clip, which has amassed over a million views and been shared more than 2,000 times, shows three boys casually evaluating a coding assignment via Google Meet.
Their conversation revolves around React, an open-source JavaScript library used for building user interfaces (UI).
Twitter Post
Take a look at the video
Instead of playing sports or watching cartoons, kids nowadays are coding. 👀 pic.twitter.com/POX50bt4MH
— Vivek Naskar (@vivek_naskar) September 8, 2024
Coding discussion
Children's coding conversation mirrors professionals
In the viral video, one child describes the code as "pretty basic," but appreciates the UI, buttons, and colors.
Another boy discusses additional features in a manner reminiscent of experienced coders.
Their conversation centers on React, a widely-used tool for creating UI maintained by Meta Platforms Inc.
Public response
Video triggers mixed reactions on children's exposure to coding
The video was posted with the caption, "Instead of playing sports or watching cartoons, kids nowadays are coding," and has elicited a range of reactions from social media users.
Some believe that it's inappropriate for children to be exposed to complex subjects like React at such a young age.
One user commented, "should be illegal to expose kids to React," suggesting that they should instead focus on arts, communication, and sports.
Positive feedback
Some users share positive experiences with young coders
Despite some negative reactions, others have shared positive experiences with young coders.
One user revealed that they had once resolved a complex issue with the help of a solution provided by a 14-year-old on YouTube.
This highlights the potential benefits and capabilities of children who are introduced to coding at an early age.
Humor ensues
Video sparks humor about unrealistic job expectations
The viral video has also sparked humor among social media users, with some joking about unrealistic job expectations in the tech industry.
Several users quipped that this is how companies expect graduates to have eight years of experience in React.
This humorous take adds a lighter note to the ongoing debate about the appropriate age for children to start learning coding.