“Is Code Language? Why is Digital Literacy Important.”

Code is definitely a language.  Programming is not something you know off the top of your head, it is something that requires proper instruction and practice. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines language primarily as “the words, their pronunciation, and the methods of combining them used and understood by a community”; in conjunction with, “the vocabulary and phraseology belonging to an art or a department of knowledge.”  Elements of a computer programming language use standardized and particular “words” to accomplish operations on data.  Combination in a particular order is essential to proper function, and is a technique of art and efficiency in and of itself.  Punctuation in the form of syntax, such as parameter brackets and end-of-line semicolons, is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle.  If one were to insert a comma in the wrong place, or have a wrong word/phrase, the code will generate an error, causing the program to work incorrectly.  Just like learning the English language, programming has its own rules and standards that one must follow in order to be a good “coder.”  The community is a diverse representation of the designers, developers, and enthusiasts who use code as both a tool, and a medium for work, play, and even art.

In our consideration of digital humanities, the fundamental premise for viewing code as a language becomes all the more justified.  Tasneem Raja’s article, “We Can Code It” compares the evolution of programming and digital development to that of writing and literacy.  If we continue at the current rate of advancement and adoption of technology, there is no question to the relevance of that comparison. As we have considered in class, programming can also refine human experience with the written word.  Even with the advent of computer technology, the archaic written word remained static. As programming has transitioned from machine code to higher-level, more user-readable languages, text has become operable and understandable by the system.  In the hands of a fluent craftsman, code can allow for numerous revolutions. From the archival application of traditional literature, to the addition of interactive experiences to existing born-digital work, to complex and far-reaching virtual environments.  When a work is digitized, what other form can it take?

In the digital age, programmers are needed everywhere. The demand for programmers will only increase as technology becomes more prominent, and evolves in the years to come.  As the growth and expansion of the digital age continues, maintaining an understanding of technology becomes a responsibility for everyone. When we come to terms with the size and scope of technology, and programming in particular, we begin to see its growing importance to society. With this being said, high schools should require students to take an introductory class to programming. Unfortunately, both hardware and software systems are becoming increasingly closed.  In the words of Cory Doctorow, noted in the aforementioned article, "Buying an iPad for your kids isn't a means of jump-starting the realization that the world is yours to take apart and reassemble; it's a way of telling your offspring that even changing the batteries is something you have to leave to the professionals."  This highlights a disparaging effect of modern technology on humanity, as we have transitioned from creators to consumers. While developments such as the maker movement, open source software, and Creative Commons are making measurable strides in a better direction, they have done little to establish any further interest or recognition.  Few consider the immense opportunities to code a better world.