In our ongoing commitment to creating an accessible online environment, we are excited to introduce a brand new feature to enhance your VEXcode experience — a High Contrast theme for blocks. This upcoming feature is designed to provide users with the ability to switch their block colors to high contrast, ensuring a more visually distinct and legible interface. Take a look below for a sneak peak at High Contrast blocks.
High contrast programming environments are crucial for enhancing accessibility in computer science education, particularly for students with visual impairments. In block-based programming, VEXcode employs a stark color contrast between the background and the blocks themselves, ensuring that each element is distinctly visible.
High contrast themes can be beneficial for learners with low vision, as it reduces eye strain and improves their ability to distinguish between different components of the programming interface [1, 2]. This approach not only benefits learners with low vision but also can reduce eye strain for all students during extended periods of coding [1]. By improving the readability of code, high contrast programming environments not only make computer science education more accessible to students with visual impairments but also broaden participation by creating a more welcoming and inclusive learning space.
All of the changes we are making meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, learn more about in the links below:
[1] Ludi, S., & Spencer, M. (2017). Design Considerations to Increase Block-based Language Accessibility for Blind Programmers Via Blockly. J. Vis. Lang. Sentient Syst., 3(1), 119-124.
[2] Milne, L. R., & Ladner, R. E. (2018, April). Blocks4All: overcoming accessibility barriers to blocks programming for children with visual impairments. In Proceedings of the 2018 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (pp. 1-10).
