Equity Issues in Elementary Computer Science Education: Exploring Current Research Knowns and Unknowns

• In Event: Equity in Computer Science Education

Abstract

Despite a nationwide push for increased computer science (CS) education, significant equity issues exist within the field. While growing research has been conducted at the high school level, equity gaps begin to emerge in elementary where little research has been done. We conducted a systematic literature review to better understand the elementary equity context and determine what underserved groups are being supported, what areas of the CAPE framework (Fletcher & Warner, 2021) are being addressed, and how equity is supported in elementary CS interventions. A majority of studies focused on student experiences, but few focused on building capacity, access, and participation. More equity-focused work is needed at the elementary level to ensure CS truly becomes accessible to all students.

Authors

• Mike Karlin, California State University - Dominguez Hills

• Yin-Chan Janet Liao, Georgia State University

• Swati Mehta, California State University - Fresno

• Afreen Iqbal

• Mahya Minaiy, California State University - Dominguez Hills

• Minhye Son, California State University - Dominguez Hills

• Jessica Zacher Pandya, California State University - Dominguez Hills