Maya Israel

Florida Department of Education, University of Florida

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Maya Israel is a leading voice at the intersection of computer science education and inclusive pedagogy. Her research centers on making computational thinking (CT) and computer science (CS) accessible to all learners, with a particular emphasis on supporting students with disabilities and those who are neurodivergent. Israel’s major contribution lies in bridging the gap between CT instruction and executive function (EF) challenges, demonstrating how foundational CT practices can be strategically designed to support diverse cognitive profiles. Her influential 2024 paper, "Including neurodiversity in computational thinking," which has already garnered 9 citations, provides a critical framework for this work. Additionally, her 2025 study on introducing CT and CS instruction to preservice science and math teachers addresses the pressing shortage of qualified K-12 CS educators, offering a roadmap for integrating these skills into teacher preparation programs. Through her research, Israel is not only advancing the theoretical understanding of inclusive computing but also providing practical, evidence-based strategies for educators, making her a pivotal figure in the movement toward equitable CS education for every student.