What does your school or grade level currently do well to expand access to computer science?
What barriers or gaps exist that may limit access or participation for certain student groups?
Based on your reflections, list at least two actionable steps you could take in the next school year to increase CS access and participation for your students. These could include hosting an Hour of Code, starting a club, advocating for curriculum integration, or collaborating with administration or parents.
Our school’s requirement that all 6th and 7th graders take computer science ensures initial exposure for every student regardless of background or prior experience. This universal access model helps students develop foundational skills without requiring them to opt in, eliminating selection bias that often limits diversity in CS programs. Our curriculum incorporates hands-on activities like Micro:bits and arcade game design that engage students with different learning styles and interests.
Barriers or gaps that limit access or participation:
Despite our universal access in 6th and 7th grade, we see a slight drop in participation when students reach 8th grade where Python becomes optional.
Actionable steps to increase CS access and participation next school year:
Create a “Python Preview Program” during the last quarter of 7th grade that introduces text-based coding concepts while still in the required course, making the transition to the elective less intimidating. This would include showcasing creative Python projects from current 8th graders that connect to diverse student interests.
Analyze our current teaching practices for potential bias in how we explain concepts, design activities, and provide feedback, ensuring we’re not unconsciously favoring certain learning styles or reinforcing stereotypes about who excels in computer science.