badamelio, you think Ms. Wente's piece argues  "you don't need math because you have a calculator"?? To see the REAL argument of the piece requires comprehension of the written word. Based on your statement, I'd suggest a little remedial work is in order!  The real argument: Most of us can get along without knowing how equipment works.  

How'd the ol' rotary phone work?  Millions didn't know, but used it anyway.
 How does my TV work?  Don't know. But I can use it. Smart phone? Same thing.  You don't need smarts, just incentive ("I gotta connect with my friends!")

Most of us can determine what we "actually need and figure out how to do it."  People like me sit at a computer for hours all day, and not have a clue how it works. That's not important to us.  FINDING KNOWLEDGE through the net--or which "apps" are appropriate for our lives, is the key for most of us. 

Meetcha half-way: Two years of "coding" basics for Middle School kids. They want more? Elective course in Secondary.