Actívate: Exploring an Equitable Computer Science Education for Spanish-Speaking Students
Advisor Information
Dr. Ann Fruhling, Dr. Brian Dorn
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Start Date
26-3-2021 12:00 AM
End Date
26-3-2021 12:00 AM
Abstract
Coding languages are globally catered to the English language. Non-native English speakers have a disadvantage in entering the world of coding, which can be attributed to the lack of exposure to instruction and additional resources available in Spanish at an early age. The long term effects are evident in the lack of representation of Hispanic and Latinx people in technological fields. Actívate is a computer science learning tool explicitly designed for Spanish-speaking students in late elementary to middle school grades. This program provides modules with each focusing on a different computer science concept for students to learn about. The design of the project stems from constructionist learning as well as culturally relevant pedagogy to provide a more effective and equitable education. Learning to code helps students of all interests to practice problem-solving and critical thinking skills that they can apply far beyond their computer science education. The inspiration for this project is based on the belief that everyone has the right to learn how to code no matter their economic status, gender, and especially their language. Actívate’s mission is to empower Spanish-speaking students to activate innovation, creativity, and confidence in the next generation of technologists.
Actívate: Exploring an Equitable Computer Science Education for Spanish-Speaking Students
Coding languages are globally catered to the English language. Non-native English speakers have a disadvantage in entering the world of coding, which can be attributed to the lack of exposure to instruction and additional resources available in Spanish at an early age. The long term effects are evident in the lack of representation of Hispanic and Latinx people in technological fields. Actívate is a computer science learning tool explicitly designed for Spanish-speaking students in late elementary to middle school grades. This program provides modules with each focusing on a different computer science concept for students to learn about. The design of the project stems from constructionist learning as well as culturally relevant pedagogy to provide a more effective and equitable education. Learning to code helps students of all interests to practice problem-solving and critical thinking skills that they can apply far beyond their computer science education. The inspiration for this project is based on the belief that everyone has the right to learn how to code no matter their economic status, gender, and especially their language. Actívate’s mission is to empower Spanish-speaking students to activate innovation, creativity, and confidence in the next generation of technologists.
Additional Information (Optional)
I have class on Fridays from 8:30-11:00.