top of page

About Us

Project eSPAC3: A Universal Design Learning Approach to Spatial Computational Thinking Skills and Career Awareness through an Immersive Virtual Environment

Project eSPAC3 is an NSF ITEST Developing and Testing Innovations (DTI) proposal that aims to develop upper-elementary students’ spatial computational thinking (SCT) skills and awareness of computationally intensive careers through an immersive, enactive learning experience in Minecraft: Education Edition (MinecraftEdu). Grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, the project emphasizes multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression by incorporating family engagement, near-peer mentorship, peer collaboration, and expert modeling to support learners.

Spatial Computational Thinking Skills (SCT) are the ability to abstract key spatial features, to decompose shapes with geometric representation and recognize patterns, and to use programming and computing tools for spatial algorithm design. SCT is increasingly demanded in computationally-intensive industries given the advances in technology innovations such as robotics, virtual realities, and smart geospatial systems.

We bring together a team of learning scientists, educational technologists, and career development experts to create an innovative informal virtual learning program and a unique age-appropriate spatial programming module. Through design-based research, we will explore two research questions: (1) How can a virtual learning experience be designed using UDL principles to support upper-elementary school students’ development of spatial computational thinking skills and career exploration? (2) What are the immediate and sustained impacts of the eSPAC3 program on participating elementary school students, parents, and college students?

The usability and feasibility studies will guide the iterative design of both the learning experience and environment, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for diverse learners. The field study will refine the program delivery model, while the pilot study will provide initial evidence of program efficacy in fostering engagement and skill development across varied learning needs.

PROJECT PARTNERS

JI-SOLES Logo-Revised White.png
NEW-IMAGES_Vertical-Logo_University-Logo-292x300.png
CV-Medallion-180x180.png
NSF_logo.png
bottom of page