I would venture that most people who started programming back then were familiar with basic digital circuitry like adders and latches, so probably, in the sense

I would venture that most people who started programming back then were familiar with basic digital circuitry like adders and latches, so probably, in the sense that you might know how an engine works without being able to build one from scratch. RadioShack still sold electronics components. My early 80s alarm clock came with a full schematic.