Hengtao Tang

University of South Carolina, Center for Inquiry

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Dr. Hengtao Tang is a leading researcher at the intersection of educational technology, computer science education, and robotics-based learning. His work centers on broadening participation in computing, particularly for underrepresented and rural student populations. Tang’s most-cited study (2022, 18 citations) demonstrates how educational robotics can significantly enhance pre-service teachers’ programming comprehension and motivation, offering a powerful pedagogical model for teacher preparation. More recently, his 2024 study (8 citations) tackles the critical challenge of integrating computer science into non-STEM curricula, showing how a robotics-based language arts course can boost rural students’ CS self-efficacy despite existing proficiency gaps in science and math. This innovative approach—embedding CS content within English language arts—represents a scalable strategy for reaching students who might otherwise lack access to computing education. Tang’s work is notable for its practical, equity-focused contributions, providing evidence-based pathways to make computer science more accessible and engaging for diverse learners. His research continues to shape how educators integrate computational thinking across disciplines, making him a vital voice in the movement toward inclusive CS education.