The Vibe Coding Phenomenon and Its Impact on Beginner Learners
In recent years, the development of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought major changes to various fields, including the world of programming.
One trend that has been widely discussed is vibe coding, an approach in which a person creates a programme simply by giving general instructions to AI without understanding the technical details or the programming logic itself.
Although it sounds practical and efficient, this trend raises concerns, particularly for educators and beginner learners who are building the foundations of their knowledge.
Simply put, vibe coding relies on AI’s ability to generate code automatically. Users only need to describe the objective or a rough outline of the application they wish to build.
The AI then arranges the code structure, selects the technologies, and writes out complete lines of programming. At first glance, this appears highly advantageous, especially for those who struggle to understand syntax or basic programming concepts.
However, behind this convenience lies a significant risk if the trend is used without adequate understanding.
The main problem with vibe coding is not the technology itself, but the way people use it. Many beginners now assume that learning to code no longer requires a lengthy process.
They feel it is enough to act as a ‘director’ without needing to master the basics such as variables, functions, algorithms, or data structures. Yet these skills are essential foundations for becoming a competent programmer.
If someone focuses only on instant results without studying the underlying concepts, they will struggle when facing real problems that require tracing logic or debugging.
The use of AI in programming should be positioned as an aid, not a replacement for the learning process. AI can help explain concepts, provide examples of implementation, or suggest alternative solutions to problems.
However, it is still humans who must write and understand the code. If the AI produces incorrect or inefficient code, users without a basic understanding will find it difficult to fix.
This can lead to frustration, failed projects, or complete dependence on AI without adequate technical skills.
In a learning context, vibe coding is similar to someone wanting to lift heavy weights at the gym straight away without basic training. The results may appear quickly, but the risk of injury also increases.
The same applies to programming: if the foundation is not strong, the ability to develop will be hampered. Conversely, if the basics are strengthened first, AI can actually become a highly useful partner for accelerating work and improving productivity.
Therefore, it is important for beginners to approach this trend wisely. Learn to understand the core concepts of programming first. Use AI to help clarify things that are not yet understood, not to do everything for you.
In this way, vibe coding can become a tool that supports the learning process rather than replacing it. Technology exists to make things easier for humans, but control and understanding must remain in our hands.