Kathleen Wassell
Papers
1
Total Citations
19
H-Index
1
About
Kathleen Wassell is a researcher whose work sits at the intersection of computer science education, equity, and youth development. Her primary research areas include the design of informal STEM learning environments, computational thinking, and the use of entertainment technologies to broaden participation in computing. Wassell’s most notable contribution is her design research on the SPARCS (Students in Programming, Robotics, and Computer Science) after-school program, which she helped develop and refine to promote computational thinking among middle school students. Her 2014 paper on this work, which has earned 19 citations, documents how the program adapted its curriculum and use of entertainment technologies to better engage diverse learners. This research is significant for demonstrating how informal learning spaces can be flexibly designed to meet the needs of students who may not otherwise have access to computer science education. Wassell’s work has practical implications for educators and program developers seeking to create inclusive, engaging STEM experiences that foster both technical skills and a sense of belonging in computing.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1