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<p>Accessibility barriers in block-based programming environments (BBPEs) continue to hinder equitable participation in computer science education, particularly for learners with disabilities. While prior research has examined accessibility challenges for programmers with visual impairments, BBPEs introduce additional barriers due to their highly visual and drag-and-drop nature. This paper presents a systematic literature review of 22 peer-reviewed studies focusing exclusively on accessibility in virtual BBPEs such as Blockly, Scratch, and App Inventor. The review identifies six core categories of barriers–interaction and input limitations, navigation and orientation difficulties, inaccessible content and outputs, cognitive load, assistive technology conflicts, and educational or technical constraints. It also synthesizes proposed solutions, including accessible keyboard navigation, voice-based interaction, screen reader integration, program navigation models, and inclusive interface design. Despite promising developments, such as Accessible Blockly and Blocks4All, existing research remains fragmented and primarily focuses on visual impairments. This review consolidates the state of knowledge, exposes underexplored disability groups, and outlines a research roadmap for designing universally accessible block-based programming environments that promote inclusive computer science education.</p>

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Understanding design and accessibility issues in block-based programming for people with disabilities: a literature review

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年6月30日

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  • Rubel Hassan Mollik,
  • Wajdi Aljedaani,
  • Stephanie Ludi

摘要

Accessibility barriers in block-based programming environments (BBPEs) continue to hinder equitable participation in computer science education, particularly for learners with disabilities. While prior research has examined accessibility challenges for programmers with visual impairments, BBPEs introduce additional barriers due to their highly visual and drag-and-drop nature. This paper presents a systematic literature review of 22 peer-reviewed studies focusing exclusively on accessibility in virtual BBPEs such as Blockly, Scratch, and App Inventor. The review identifies six core categories of barriers–interaction and input limitations, navigation and orientation difficulties, inaccessible content and outputs, cognitive load, assistive technology conflicts, and educational or technical constraints. It also synthesizes proposed solutions, including accessible keyboard navigation, voice-based interaction, screen reader integration, program navigation models, and inclusive interface design. Despite promising developments, such as Accessible Blockly and Blocks4All, existing research remains fragmented and primarily focuses on visual impairments. This review consolidates the state of knowledge, exposes underexplored disability groups, and outlines a research roadmap for designing universally accessible block-based programming environments that promote inclusive computer science education.