This. The only answer here that actually answers the question. Why the question is allowed to stand is another matter.

Digressing from the OP's issue somewhat: I have been programming for 1/2 a century, taught programming to University Undergrads and Graduates for 20 years, and trained programmers in industrial settings. While I was expressing my personal experience above, here I will give my considered professional opinion: anyone of normal intelligence can learn to program. So I'm afraid I politely disagree with your "absurd" claim, although it does hinge on your definition of "too broadly".

I would say the opposite: learning to code is easy and fun.

I could not agree more. University students are, by definition, adults. Treat them as such. Expect adult behaviour. People respond according to their treatment; the rules should be clear, and FAIRLY applied. Pandering to these apparently bogus claims is unfair to the honest students.

Yes, when in doubt assume user error. If the people involved wanted their answer to be confidential they would/should say so. In academia, people get zillions of emails; clearing inboxes is a chore. Many people will take as little time as they can over each email.

@qwr Ah, current reality, out of touch with, I am! Yes, if the classes are remote then the OP can simply record them. I got the impression they were in person because this is such an obvious solution and the hand written notes reference. Find ways to adapt, we must.

@jamesqf Ah, it's been 45 years since I encountered them and they were text-book fare even then. Just seemed an apt case.

@ElizabethHenning Good point that is omitted by this answer. Every University that I have had anything to do with, even just to visit, has had a student support service. While talking to the lecturer, the OP will get a sense of the lecturer's approach to students. If it seems positive then that is the time to broach the OP's concerns. If not, then the student support service or student union are the next ports of call. I'll edit the answer to include this. Thanks.

@BillNace I certainly cannot defend academics of whom I know nothing, but in my experience there are two kinds: those who care about teaching and those who only care about their research. My advice doesn't presuppose to which group the lecturer belongs. Ideally, they are good at teaching and could give advice on learning issues.