Powering up: Computer Science for Every Learner Through Culturally Responsive Professional Development

In collaboration with CS for Success and National Louis University, BootUp is excited to present our research project “Powering up: Computer Science for Every Learner Through Culturally Responsive Professional Development.” This project is aims to enhance knowledge on teaching introductory computer science (CS) to English Learners (ELs) effectively in two Illinois school districts. Supporting and developing key concepts in CS and computational thinking (CT) embedded across various subject areas, this project seeks to support inclusive and comprehensive learning for ELs.

This project aims to examine our hypothesis that sustained, intensive, collaborative professional development (PD) in CS, seamlessly integrated into educators’ workdays, will establish a supportive school-wide context and provide the necessary instructional assistance for EL teachers to effectively integrate CS into their practices.

Data analysis after Year 1 of PD shows that this approach lead to EL students feeling ownership over coding activities and feel supported by the use of their native language. Check out our poster here or join us at ISTELive 25, ASCD Annual Conference 25, or CSTA 25 to learn more!