Including Neurodiversity in Foundational and Applied Computational Thinking (INFACT) engages students in grades 3–8 in problem solving through computational thinking (CT). INFACT involves a variety of on- and off-line CT learning and teaching materials, including games (e.g., Zoombinis), coding, robotics, and hands-on activities.
INFACT is specially designed for inclusive classrooms, integrating supports for executive function within the CT activities. Recent US Department of Education (USEd) funded research showed students who use INFACT show more improvement on CT assessments than those using other CT programs. This outcome was particularly dramatic for students who face challenges with executive function.
EdGE at TERC wants to collaborate with you. Schools and districts who will benefit from INFACT include:
- Those interested in implementing, or already working toward implementing, standards for computational thinking in inclusive elementary and middle school classes.
- Districts interested in strengthening elementary and middle school math programs for neurodivergent learners by integrating CT into mathematical problem-solving.
- Districts interested in improving SEL and executive function support for all students in STEM.
The proposed partnership would include:
- Districts and schools helping build, along with EdGE at TERC, a comprehensive program for CT in grades 3-5 using INFACT materials and supports.
- The INFACT team providing teachers with real-time supports to provide inclusive and differentiated teaching and learning in their own, unique circumstances.
- District authorization to conduct efficacy studies of the INFACT implementation, likely beginning in Fall 2025, which may include random assignments of classes using portions of INFACT or other CT materials.
- After approximately 10 hours of classroom implementation for the research study, all participating teachers will have access to all INFACT materials and will be supported for at least the remainder of the granting period.
