The future of programming lies in emerging technologies including artificial intelligence and “no-code” graphical programming tools that minimize the need for coding. The dominant explanation and evidence for this progression is observed through the historical evolution of programming languages. The goal of programming has consistently revolved around bridging the gap between humans and computers and as such, over time, programming languages have enabled humans and computers to think and communicate on increasingly similar terms. Although such trends have been observed in previous research, the motivations, results, and stepped nature of programming evolution demands further analysis. This research seeks to perform this analysis and address current gaps in the generally accepted hierarchy of programming. The implications of the findings are explored as it relates to humans’ role in programming and evidence-based predictions are made regarding what the near-future may hold for coding.
