Examining the Design and Outcomes of an After-School Physical Computing Program in Middle-School

Sotheara Veng, Chrystalla Mouza, Lori Pollock

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

This work examines the application of high-quality pedagogical practices in the design and implementation of an after-school physical computing program aimed at providing middle school students with access to computer science (CS) education. It subsequently examines how the program influenced students’ learning of CS concepts and attitudes towards computing. The program was designed and implemented through a school-university partnership, and 66 middle school students voluntarily participated. There were two cohorts of students in the study. Results indicate that the program had a positive impact on students’ understanding of CS concepts. Further, a significant impact on attitudes towards computing was documented among students in the second cohort. Implications are drawn for the design of informal after-school programs aimed at broadening participation in computing.
Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education International Conference 2023
EditorsElizabeth Langran, Paula Christensen, Jarrod Sanson
Place of PublicationNew Orleans
PublisherAssociation for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE)
Pages2316-2326
Number of pages11
ISBN (Print)9781939797681
StatePublished - Mar 2023

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