Comment Re:Better question, before or after algebra (Score 1) 313
I disagree. Many people understand the concept of variables long before their introduction to Algebra.
I remember Algebra being a course about factoring and moving variables within the equation. I am not going to deny that the skills gained in these exercises are useful; but, they should not be a barrier.
I remember being in High School and not being permitted to take a computer class because I was not in Calculus. This didn't motivate me to study Calculus; further, computer classes should not be used as a carrot for some other part of the curriculum. They should be used through the educational process where appropriate (I really cannot believe we are going back to this discussion after thirty years).