Making computer science education accessible to users with disabilities is crucial for fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities in the tech industry. It empowers individuals with diverse abilities to develop essential skills, participate fully in the digital world, and contribute innovative perspectives. Accessibility in education not only promotes social equity but also drives technological advancements that benefit everyone by encouraging diverse problem-solving approaches and creativity.
Current computer science education tools and pedagogy may provide barriers to students with disabilities and pose a challenge for educators when attempting to support ALL students in their classrooms. Through collaboration and co- design between educators, students with disabilities, and other stakeholders these barriers can and should be removed.
As part of Zero Day Camp’s Google Blockly Accessibility grant, we are starting a Slack Workspace to focus on connecting educators, administrators, students and families so they may collaborate and help solve and advocate for more accessible CS education. Within this workspaces, we carved out channels for discussions around supporting specific disability related needs as well as places to share best practices, research and pedagogy. A project help channel is also available for anyone working on a particular tool, activity or project and would like support from the greater community.
Join Us!
Interested in joining this community and collaborating? We are looking for accessibility minded:
- CS or Makerspace educators in K-12 or informal learning places
- University level educators for CS and STEM fields
- Administrators and decision makers
- Students with disabilities and their caregivers or families
- Disability organizations
- Government organizations
- Assistive technology professionals
- Digital Accessibility professionals
- Developers and CS Education companies
To get started, email us at info [at] zeroday.camp.