Informal Learning in Computer Science

Informal computer science (CS) learning environments, such as after-school programs and summer camps, introduce students to computing outside traditional classrooms, helping broaden participation in CS. This poster reviews literature on curricula and instructor training across informal CS programs, highlighting significant variation in content, structures, and delivery. Evidence suggests that while these programs improve student attitudes and conceptual understanding, challenges in engagement, pacing, and instructor preparedness persist, particularly with reliance on lecture-style activities and varying student programming backgrounds. Through a case study of a California nonprofit's afterschool coding classes, common classroom management and engagement issues are identified. In response, we are developing a toolkit of supplemental resources to support teachers based on the available evaluation research in addition to collaboratively revising the curriculum of this afterschool program (which will be complete in 2026). We present the proposed toolkit in this poster. Our findings aim to inform future curriculum development and targeted teacher training, advancing the effectiveness of informal CS learning environments.