Scratch Encore
Diana Franklin, David Weintrop, Jennifer L. Palmer, Merijke Coenraad, Melissa Cobian, Kristan Beck, Andrew Rasmussen, Sue Krause, Max White, Marco Taboada, Zachary Crenshaw
Abstract
While several introductory computer science curricula exist for children in K-8, there are few options that go beyond sequence, loops, and basic conditionals. The goal of this project is to not only fill this gap with a high-quality curriculum supported by complete instructional materials, but to also do so with an equity-balanced curriculum. That is, a curriculum that values advancing equity equally with student learning outcomes. In this paper, we introduce barriers to equity in public school classrooms, pedagogical approaches to culturally-relevant curricula, and how our Scratch Encore curriculum is designed to support equity-balanced learning. Finally, we present results of our pilot year, including early evidence of students taking advantage of the culturally-relevant design aspects.