Presenter – (In-person)
Savaas Iqbal, Lila Alderete, and William Ellis,
Cornell University, Ithaca, New York.
Abstract
Current tools for accessible coding education, such as Code Jumper, are prohibitively expensive—often exceeding $1,000—and offer limited curriculum and real-world programming experience. These systems focus on logic but stop short of teaching actual coding skills.
We introduce Quorum Tactile Coding Blocks, an open-source, low-cost, and highly adaptable solution designed for blind and low-vision students. Developed by a student-led team, these 3D-printable blocks integrate braille, high-contrast visual design, and screen reader–complementary layouts, making coding concepts both physically and visually accessible. For example, indentation is physically represented, addressing a key challenge where screen readers fall short. The blocks are paired with curriculum written by an educator specifically for students with disabilities, and can be downloaded and printed globally for under $15.
Our tool supports the Quorum language, an evidence-based, accessible language with capabilities ranging from data visualization to game development. To expand its reach, we developed the Tactile Coding Blocks Autogeneration Software, which enables educators to generate tactile blocks for any programming language in seconds—a process that previously took hours.
By combining affordability, portability, customization, and universal design, this tool brings meaningful coding education within reach—supporting inclusive participation in the STEM pipeline.