Usability Challenges that Novice Programmers Experience when Using Scratch for the First Time

Block-based programming environments have increased students' interest in computer science (CS). Research suggests that block-based programming environments have positively impacted students' retention, effectiveness, efficiency, engagement, attitudes, and perceptions towards computing. We know that when novice programmers are learning to program in block-based programming environments, they need to understand the components of these environments, how to apply programming concepts, and how to create artifacts. However, few studies have been done to understand the impacts that usability of block-based programming environments may have on students' programming. In this poster, we present results from a two-part study designed to understand the impact that usability of the programming environment has on novice programmers when learning to program in Scratch. Our findings indicate that usability challenges may affect students' ability to navigate and create programs within block-based programming environments.