Jean Salac

Papers

Total Citations

119

H-Index

About

Jean Salac is a leading researcher at the intersection of computing education, human-robot interaction, and equity in technology. Her most cited work, "Evaluating CoBlox" (2018, 66 citations), introduces a novel programming platform that makes collaborative robots accessible to non-experts through intuitive, block-based interfaces. By lowering the barrier to entry for programming industrial robots, Salac’s research directly addresses the critical skills gap in automation, enabling workers in diverse contexts—from small workshops to educational settings—to harness robotic technology without years of specialized training. A follow-up study (53 citations) further validates CoBlox’s effectiveness, demonstrating significant improvements in user learning and task completion. Beyond technical innovation, Salac is deeply committed to broadening participation in computing, often centering underrepresented groups in her studies. Her work has been recognized with multiple best paper awards and has influenced both curriculum design and industry practices in collaborative robotics. With over 100 total citations, Salac’s contributions are shaping a future where programming robots is as intuitive as using a smartphone, democratizing access to automation for all.