Using Co-Design to Investigate Affordances of an Expressive CS Learning Environment for Students Who Are BVI.

Expressive computer science (CS) learning environments teach coding through the creation of an artifact, such as audio or video output. EarSketch is an expressive CS learning environment designed to teach computing through music production, mixing and arranging sounds using code. In this paper, we explore the accessibility challenges of using EarSketch for learners who are Blind and Visually Impaired (BVI). We present key findings from co-design studies with teachers and students at an institution specializing in BVI education, focused on gathering both groups' unique perspectives about EarSketch's ability to support teachers' curricula, students' workflows using the system with accessibility software, and challenges faced by users who are BVI.