Let's work together: Improving block-based environments by supporting synchronous collaboration

Abstract

Block-based programming environments are a good way to teach beginners how to code, in part because they eliminate syntax errors and provide visual feedback. However, many of the existing environments do not explicitly support synchronous collaboration. Collaboration is a critical component of computer science practice and CS education. We therefore argue that features to support collaboration could significantly enhance existing and new block-based programming environments. We review existing block-based programming environments, suggest design ideas for supporting synchronous collaboration, and evaluate environments that currently support some of these features.