The University of Florida’s CSEveryone Center for Computer Science Education has been awarded a $450,000 grant from Google’s Blockly Accessibility Fund. This funding will support a research project focused on enhancing the accessibility of K-12 computer science education, ensuring students of all abilities can participate and thrive in CS learning environments. The project is led by Andrew Bennett, a doctoral candidate in Curriculum & Instruction with a specialization in Educational Technology, with the center’s director, Maya Israel, Ph.D., as the co-PI.
This innovative project will empower teachers with the knowledge and tools to create more inclusive CS classrooms. Teachers will receive professional development on utilizing the POUR (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust) framework for accessibility in conjunction with Blockly, a block-based programming platform. They will also work with robotics like the BBC Micro:Bit V2 and DASH robots, gaining hands-on experience integrating accessibility considerations into their lessons.
Andrew Bennett, doctoral candidate
This research will inform the development of more accessible educational technologies and practices. As part of the project, teachers will be equipped with iPads and participate in collaborative evaluations, sharing their insights and challenges to build a community of practice focused on inclusive CS education.
The project’s findings will directly benefit Google by providing valuable feedback on the accessibility of Blockly in real-world classroom settings.
“This funding provides a mutually beneficial model,” explains Bennett. “Teachers gain valuable tools and training to better evaluate and implement accessible computer science practices, preparing their students for the 21st-century world. Simultaneously, Google gains critical insights into how the accessibility of their product, Blockly, is experienced in the classroom.”
By bridging research, teaching, and practical application, this initiative aims to enhance teachers’ skills in accessible CS education and shape the future of inclusive learning for all students. This project represents a significant step toward ensuring that computer science education is accessible to every learner.
“There are many physical, cognitive, and other factors to think about when considering the accessibility of computer science education resources.” Bennett said. “An adapted version of the POUR principles with specific questions to think about can help teachers think through how their students might use a product, making observations about what works and what may need to be adapted or changed.”
Portions of this story were created or edited using generative AI.