SnapClass: An AI-Enhanced Classroom Management System for Block-Based Programming

TL;DR

Block-based programming in K-12 education presents grading and classroom management challenges due to diverse student submissions and workload. We propose SnapClass, an AI-enhanced classroom management system integrated into Snap!, offering assignment creation, rubric-based auto-grading, code-history recovery, engagement monitoring, idle-time alerts, and a raise-hand help dashboard. Key innovations include a large-language-model-driven rubric generator, SnapBot (LLM-based chatbot with retrieval-augmentation connected to Snap Reference Manual), and differentiated starter code for learner scaffolding. We outline teacher-informed design methods and discuss planned empirical studies to evaluate impact and further capabilities for formative feedback and personalized assistance.

Abstract

Block-Based Programming (BBP) platforms, such as Snap!, have become increasingly prominent in K-12 computer science education due to their ability to simplify programming concepts and foster computational thinking from an early age. While these platforms engage students through visual and gamified interfaces, teachers often face challenges in using them effectively and finding all the necessary features for classroom management. To address these challenges, we introduce SnapClass, a classroom management system integrated within the Snap! programming environment. SnapClass was iteratively developed drawing on established research about the pedagogical and logistical challenges teachers encounter in computing classrooms. Specifically, SnapClass allows educators to create and customize block-based coding assignments based on student skill levels, implement rubric-based auto-grading, and access student code history and recovery features. It also supports monitoring student engagement and idle time, and includes a help dashboard with a raise hand feature to assist students in real time. This paper describes the design and key features of SnapClass those are developed and those are under progress.

Figures (7)

• Figure 1: Teacher dashboard showing student hand raise status, activity level and coding progress
• Figure 2: Student management page where teachers can set student coding levels as beginner, intermediate or advanced. Each level corresponds to different starter code in assignments.
• Figure 3: Teacher view of assignments
• Figure 4: Left: SnapClass student view. Studnets work on Snap coding environment on the left side, and view assignment instructions, raise hand for help and chat with SnapBot. Right: SnapBot teacher view of individual student chat history within an assignment and a summary of the chat.
• Figure 5: Assignment creation page teachers can optionally create differentiated starter code for different student levels.