They're not native with the desktop computer metaphor, but so what? Why does that matter? Why is desktop computing the true computing that identifies whether you're native or not?
And of course, none of this has anything to do with computer science, does it? You can do good computer science with a desktop, a tablet, or a pen and paper.
What development environments run well on a tablet?
Given the choice I wouldn't, my point was more that only having access to an iPad is no reason to not be able to learn how to program.
It's the one platform that allows you to be really productive (at least in an office context).
I personally already struggle when trying to write some proper longer text on a smartphone or table. I don't think I could comfortably write some nice Word letter with maybe some custom design on such a device.
It maybe works out if you are some artist... Idk.